Name: Collections relating to the dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin (vol. 1)
Author: M. (Michael) Comerford (1830 or 1831–1895)

Bishop Milo Roche buried before image of St. Laserian at Leighlin Cathedral

Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow · 1489

Bishop Milo Roche, noted for his skill in music and poetry, died in 1489 and was buried in his own cathedral at Leighlin before the image of St. Laserian.

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Ware states of this Prelate that he was given to Music and Poetry more than was fit ; and Dowling records that “ Inter bardos numeratur pro omnibus instrumentis musicae et rythmis.” Many disputes arose between him and his clergy, in which the Bishop was generally worsted. The following passage relative to these disputes, occurs in Dowling’s Annals: “Octavius Armachanus, totius Hib. primas admittens appellationem David Curreyn Decani et Capitali Leighlen., a sede metropolitica factum, inhibuit Episcopo Leighlen., ne quod attemptaret in praejudicium Decani et Capituli appellantium circa suas distributiones quotidianas ; per sententiae instrumentum apparet Episcopum comparuisse vigore inhibitionis et citationis emanatae in consistorio generali crastino Sti. Patricii, in cancello Divi Laurentii, presente, etc. . . . et preconis, Nicolai, prebendarii, de Hillard, economi syndinque et prolocutoris Capituli atque procuratoris contra eundum episcopum.” Dr. Roche died in 1489, and was buried in his own Cathedral, before the image of St. Laserian. ( Ware.)
Luke Wadding records the appointment of Calcerand de Andres, a Minorite, to the See of Leighlin, in the 17th Kal. Novr., 1448 ; in this, however, he must be mistaken, as Dr. Roche was then living. ( Harris's Ware?}

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 53

As the companion tells it

As the road takes you through or near the parish of Oldleighlin in Carlow, this is the place of a bishop whose story survives in old records. Bishop Milo Roche was a man given to music and poetry, more than some thought fitting. Ware says so plainly. Dowling's Latin has him numbered among the bards, for all instruments of music and rhythms. He quarrelled often with his clergy, and the records say he was generally worsted. One entry tells how the Primate of all Ireland, Octavius Armachanus, admitted an appeal from David Curreyn, the Dean, and the chapter of Leighlin, and forbade the bishop from acting against the dean and chapter regarding their daily distributions. The bishop appeared in court the day after St. Patrick's feast, in the chancel of St. Laurence's church, with officials and a proctor speaking against him. Dr. Roche died in 1489, and was buried in his own cathedral, before the image of St. Laserian.

Father John Doyle dies at Monasterevan after American mission

Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1844–1845

Father John Doyle, born in the parish of Naas, served on the American Mission under Bishop England of Charleston before returning to Ireland in ill health; he ended his days at a relative's residence in Monasterevan in 1845.

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Father Doyle, who was born in the parish of Naas, entered Carlow College when a young boy, and was a bright and distinguished student. He volunteered for the American Mission where he served under Dr. England, Bishop of Charleston, and shared to the full in the many trials and privations with which the early career of that great Prelate was beset. He returned to Ireland about the year 1844, his health greatly impaired, and was appointed Prefect of the Lay College ; but his health continuing to decline, he had to relinguish this appointment after little more than a year. He ended his days at the residence of a relative in Monasterevan, 1st October, 1845, aged 51.
The Rev. James Nolan.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 224

As the companion tells it

Monasterevin is a town the road passes through. Father John Doyle was born in the parish of Naas, entered Carlow College as a young boy, and was a bright and distinguished student. He volunteered for the American Mission, where he served under Dr. England, Bishop of Charleston, and shared to the full in the many trials and privations of that great Prelate's early career. He returned to Ireland around 1844, his health greatly impaired, and was appointed Prefect of the Lay College. But his health kept declining, and he had to give up that appointment after little more than a year. He ended his days at the residence of a relative in Monasterevin, on the 1st of October 1845, aged 51.

Birth of James Warren Doyle at Donard/Ballinvegga

Donard · townland · Wexford · 1786

James Warren Doyle, future Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, was born at Donard, otherwise called Ballinvegga, near New Ross, in Autumn 1786, six weeks after his father's death.

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James Warren Doyle was born at Donard, otherwise called Ballinvegga* within six miles of New Ross, where his parents resided, in the Autumn of 1786. James Doyle, his father, was already six weeks dead when the future Bishop was born. He received his first instruction from his mother, Anne Warren, who is represented as having been gifted with good natural abilities and more than ordinary attainments. At twelve years old he was sent to a school kept by a Mr. Grace from which, after two years, he passed to a school lately opened at New Ross by Father Crane, O.S.A. Indications were already observable of his leanings to the ecclesiastical state which, no doubt, were fostered by his teacher and ever-devoted friend. In a letter to Dr. Gibbons, dated 17th October, 1823, Dr. Doyle expresses the high esteem and affectionate reverence in which he held Father Crane : “ There is no person now living,” he writes, “ with the exception of my brother, to whom I have been so long allied by affection and friendship, or to whom I am under more weighty obligations.” (Life, Vol. 1 , p. 11.)
Having made choice of the ecclesiastical state, James Doyle in 1805, entered the Novitiate of the Augustinians, at Grantstown, a place on the Wexford coast, in the direction of Carnsore Point. Here he made his profession, in January, 1806, and, some months later, he set out for Coimbra, where he took tip his residence at the Augustinian College de Graga, which was annexed to the great Portuguese University.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 91

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in a place called Donard, otherwise known as Ballinvegga, within six miles of New Ross, James Warren Doyle was born in the Autumn of 1786. His father, James Doyle, was already six weeks dead when the boy arrived. His mother, Anne Warren, gave him his first instruction. She was said to have been gifted with good natural abilities and more than ordinary attainments. At twelve years old he was sent to a school kept by a Mr. Grace, and after two years he passed to a school lately opened at New Ross by Father Crane, an Augustinian. There were already signs of his leanings toward the ecclesiastical state, no doubt fostered by his teacher. In a letter to Dr. Gibbons, dated the 17th of October 1823, Dr. Doyle wrote of the high esteem and affectionate reverence he held for Father Crane. "There is no person now living," he wrote, "with the exception of my brother, to whom I have been so long allied by affection and friendship, or to whom I am under more weighty obligations." Having chosen the ecclesiastical state, he entered the Augustinian novitiate at Grantstown on the Wexford coast in 1805. He made his profession there in January 1806, and some months later set out for Coimbra, where he took up residence at the Augustinian College de Graga, annexed to the great Portuguese University.

Bishop O'Keeffe sojourns and preaches across the dioceses

Tullow · town · Carlow · 1752–1787

Bishop O'Keeffe frequently sojourned at Kildare, Tullow and Dunleckney while visiting his extensive dioceses during a time of persecution. He preached often in glens and bogs since chapels were few and wretched.

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during the course of his studies. He took the Degree of Doctor in Divinity at the Sorbonne at a time when that body shone with the brightest splendour. His stature was not large, but his constitution was strong, and, until his sight failed him, — for, like another Tobias, he was led for the latter years of his life, — his labours were uninterrupted. At the time when he was called to the care of these Dioceses, the persecution raged violently, yet his courage and his zeal sustained him. A heavenly prudence seemed to direct all his words and actions. He visited every part of his extensive Dioceses, frequently sojourning for a time at Kildare, again at Tullow, often at Dunleckney, and, still oftener, at the houses of friends, for he had scarcely any income, and when money was given to him he only retained it until he was met by some victim of distress. From his letters, which I have perused, it may be collected that he was often in want of the most common necessaries, yet he never complained. Finding that his clergy were few, and almost without fixed abodes or regular organization, he laboured to educate youths of piety and talents, that the number of his fellow-labourers might be augmented; he established Conferences of the Clergy, and seldom failed, at whatever personal inconvenience, to attend them. He prescribed rules and regulations according to which the Clergy were, when it was possible for them, to discharge their duties. He preached the Word of God incessantly, often in glens and bogs, for chapels in his time were few and wretched. The gravity of his deportment, the piety which animated all his words and actions, were such that no person approached to see and hear him who did not depart a better man. In all things he bore the appearance of a “ Man of God,” and so gained upon the minds and hearts of those with whom he conversed, whether they were of his own fold or of the strayed sheep, that his virtue stemmed, as it were, the torrent of persecution, and gave peace to his people in his days. Religion seemed to arise at his call from the grave in which she was buried, and the vineyard assigned to him changed from a state of desolation to comparative fruitfulness. God blessed his word and works, in both of which he was powerful. During his Episcopacy it was that the French Revolution commenced, and that the Irish Catholics first conceived hopes of delivery. United by the strictest ties of holy friendship with the Archbishop of Cashel, Doctor James Butler, he laboured with him to unite the Catholics, to appease the inveterate wrath of the Government, and to obtain that the Catholics would be permitted, to take an oath of allegiance to the King. He was the soul and the guide of the Irish Prelacy and laity, and drew up the ever-memorable declaration of loyalty

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 82

As the companion tells it

Tullow was one of the places where Bishop O'Keeffe sojourned during his years of travelling the dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin. He had taken his Doctor of Divinity at the Sorbonne in Paris, and when he was called to the care of these dioceses, persecution raged violently. His courage and his zeal sustained him. He visited every part of his extensive dioceses, frequently sojourning at Kildare, again at Tullow, often at Dunleckney, and still more often at the houses of friends, for he had scarcely any income. When money was given to him he kept it only until he met some victim of distress. His letters show he was often in want of the most common necessaries, yet he never complained. His clergy were few and almost without fixed abodes or regular organization. He laboured to educate youths of piety and talents, established conferences of the clergy, and seldom failed to attend them at whatever personal inconvenience. He prescribed rules according to which the clergy were, when possible, to discharge their duties. He preached the Word of God incessantly, often in glens and bogs, for chapels in his time were few and wretched. The gravity of his deportment and the piety animating all his words and actions were such that no person approached to see and hear him who did not depart a better man. In all things he bore the appearance of a "Man of God." His virtue stemmed, as it were, the torrent of persecution and gave peace to his people in his days.

Dean Staunton and Bishop Keeffe found Carlow College

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1786–1787

The lease for the ground on which Carlow College stands was made to Dr. Keeffe in September 1786, and building began early in 1787 as a joint undertaking of Bishop Keeffe and Dean Staunton, Parish Priest of Carlow.

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Though the precise date at which the building of the College was commenced is not on record, yet there is evidence to show that it was begun early in the year 1787. The Lease of the ground on which the College stands, was made to Dr. Keeffe for a term of 999 years, and is dated September, 1786. It was admittedly, the conjoint undertaking of Bishop Keeffe and Dean Staunton, Parish Priest of Carlow. The latter succeeded Dean Gernon as Pastor of Carlow in March, 1787 ; and Dr. Keeffe died September 18th, in the same year, by which time the building had already made considerable progress.
The Very Kev. Henry Staunton.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 163

As the companion tells it

Close to Carlow, Carlow College began early in 1787. The lease for the ground it stands on was made to Dr. Keeffe in September 1786, for a term of 999 years. The building was a joint undertaking of Bishop Keeffe and Dean Staunton, who was Parish Priest of Carlow. Staunton had succeeded Dean Gernon as Pastor of Carlow in March 1787. Dr. Keeffe died on the 18th of September that same year, and by then the building had already made considerable progress.

Doyle's Diocesan Visitation and clergy retreats

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1820

Early in 1820 Dr. Doyle undertook a laborious Visitation of his extensive diocese, and later that year organised the first annual Spiritual Retreats for clergy, held in July 1820, which he conducted in person.

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The practice, now so universally observed, of having annual Spiritual Retreats for the Clergy in each Diocese, was but little attended to previous to the time of Dr. Doyle. One of his first cares was to establish this salutary usage ; accordingly, we find him arranging for the holding of two Retreats in July 1820, both of which he conducted in person. Writing on the 15th of July, Dr. Doyle remarks: — “I am goingto prepare for our two Retreats; the first begins on Monday. Drs. Troy, Hamill, Blake, all the most respectable clergy of Dublin, some from Meath, and all our own priests attend this week. I am left alone to instruct, but trust in God who is the strength of the weak. When those are ended I must go to each of our five Conferences, and give Confirmation in a few parishes.” {Life, 1, p. 131.)

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 94

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Carlow, in 1820, Dr. Doyle set two things in motion that changed the life of his diocese. Early that year he undertook a laborious Visitation of the whole extensive diocese, travelling to meet his people and clergy. Then he organised the first annual Spiritual Retreats for clergy, a practice little attended to before his time but universally observed since. He arranged two Retreats in July 1820 and conducted both in person. Writing on the 15th of July, he said he was preparing for the retreats, the first beginning on Monday. Drs. Troy, Hamill and Blake attended, all the most respectable clergy of Dublin, some from Meath, and all his own priests. He was left alone to instruct them, but trusted in God, who is the strength of the weak. When the retreats ended he planned to visit each of the five Conferences and give Confirmation in a few parishes.

Earl of Kildare writes to Cardinal Wolsey from Maynooth

Maynooth · town · Kildare · 1523

In 1523 the Earl of Kildare wrote a letter to Cardinal Wolsey seeking the bishopric of Kildare for Edward Dillon, Dean of the Cathedral Church, dating and signing the letter from his manor of Maynooth.

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is now voide by the dethe of the last Bishop there, so as I have now writtyn to the Kinges Grace disiring to have his letters of denomination therefore unto this berer, Maister Edward Dillon, Deane of the Cathedrall Chirch of Kildare, foresaid ; which is of vertuous living and of English name and condicion ; unto whom I beseche your Grace to be good and gracious lord, and that he may have youre gracious favoures in the expedicion of the same and the rather at this my poore contemplacion, etc., etc. Writtyn at my manour of Maynoth, the 8th day of Februarii,” (1523.) Stale Papers, Hen. VIII. Vol. 2. From Ware and the official entry of Dr. Dillon’s appointed as Bishop, it appears that his name was Thomas, not Edward. This maybe a mistake on the part of the Earl of Kildare. If not, it may be concluded that, failing in obtaining the Bishopric for Edward, he procured the promotion for a namesake, perhaps a brother.
On the 24th of August, 1526, Thomas Dillon was appointed to the See of Kildare, then for 13 years vacant. “ Die 24 Augusti, 1526, referente Card. Campegio, providit ecclesiae Daren, in Hibernia, quae per XIII. annos vacavit per obitum Edmundi extra Romanam Curiam, vacanti, de persona Thomas N. (sic) cum retentione Monasterii Sti Petri, et aliorum beneficiorum prout in cedula.” (Barberini Archives.) This Prelate was a native of Meath, and had been educated at Oxford. (Ware.) It is stated that Dr. Dillon vacated the See in 1528, and was succeeded by Dr. Stoll. He died in 1529.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 23

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Maynooth in Kildare, this is where the Earl of Kildare had his manor. In February 1523 he wrote to Cardinal Wolsey from here, asking that the bishopric of Kildare be given to Edward Dillon, Dean of the Cathedral Church of Kildare, describing him as a man of virtuous living and of English name and condition. But the records tell a stranger story. The bishop actually appointed was Thomas Dillon, not Edward. This may have been a mistake on the Earl's part, or perhaps he secured the post for a brother or namesake. Thomas Dillon was appointed on the 24th of August 1526, after the see had stood vacant for 13 years. He was a native of Meath and had been educated at Oxford. His time as bishop was short. He vacated the see in 1528 and was succeeded by Dr. Stoll. Thomas Dillon died the following year, in 1529.

Edward Nolan born at Tullow, County Carlow

Tullow · town · Carlow · 1793

Dr. Nolan was born on the 21st of April, 1793, at Tullow, County Carlow, where his father James Nolan occupied a position of respectability, and the family traced descent from Cahir O'Nolan of Ballykealy.

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Dr. Nolan was born on the 21st of April, 1793, at Tullow, County Carlow, where his father, James Nolan, occupied a position of respectability. Sir Bernard Burke’s “ Visitation of Seats, and Arms,” page 57, sets forth his descent in a direct line from Cahir O’Nolan of Ballykealy, who died on the 15th of January, 1592. James Nolan who was born in 1758, married, in 1787, Mary Moore of Tullow, and, dying in 1819, left issue five sons, of whom Edward was the second eldest; and two daughters*
Whilst the mother of the future Bishop was still a girl, Dr. Keeffe, the then Bishop, gave her an episcopal ring, telling her to keep it for one of her sons who should be a Bishop. His mother kept the ring, not mentioning the matter except to her husband, and, upon Dr. Keeffe’s demise, gave it to the Right Rev. Dr. Delany, informing him of the circumstances under which it came into her possession. Dr. Delany accepted it, but only in trust, and returned it before his death, in 1814. This ring is still in the possession of a member of the family. At an early age Edward Nolan became a pupil at Carlow College ; his name and those of his brothers John and Thomas appear on the rolls of that institution in 1804. Patrick and Daniel also received

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

As the companion tells it

Tullow in County Carlow is a town the road passes through. On the 21st of April, 1793, a boy named Edward Nolan was born in this town. His father, James Nolan, held a position of respectability. The family traced their descent in a direct line from Cahir O'Nolan of Ballykealy, who died on the 15th of January, 1592. James Nolan, born in 1758, married Mary Moore of Tullow in 1787. He died in 1819, leaving five sons and two daughters. Edward was the second eldest of the sons. Whilst his mother was still a girl, Dr. Keeffe, the then Bishop, gave her an episcopal ring. He told her to keep it for one of her sons who should be a Bishop. She kept the ring, telling no one but her husband. Upon Dr. Keeffe's death, she gave it to the Right Reverend Dr. Delany, and told him how it came into her possession. Dr. Delany accepted it, but only in trust, and returned it before his own death in 1814. The ring was still held by a member of the family. At an early age Edward became a pupil at Carlow College. His name and those of his brothers John and Thomas appear on the rolls of that institution in 1804.

Great conflagration at Kildare in 709

Kildare · town · Kildare · 709

A great fire laid Kildare waste in 709 during the reign of King Congall Kennmagar, possibly the origin of a story that clerics were burned there.

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“ a.d. 707. Maeldoborcon, Bishop of Kildare, died on the 19th of February.” {Four Masters.) “ A.D. 708. Maeldoborcon, Episcopus Cille-daro, pausavit.” (Annal. Ult.) The death of this Prelate is stated by some to have taken place in the year 704 {Ware). Keating {Booh, 2 ,p. 46,) relates that King Congall Kennmagar persecuted the Church at this time, and burned the secular and regular clergy of Kildare ; but Lanigan discredits this statement, judging to the contrary from the peaceable and prosperous reign ascribed to this monarch by old writers. A great conflagration, it is true, laid Kildare waste in 709. {Four Masters), during this King’s reign ; and, as we may suppose that some clerics lost their lives in this fire, this circumstance may have given occasion to the story.
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Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 7

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare town, you are travelling through a place that was laid waste by a great conflagration in 709, during the reign of King Congall Kennmagar. Keating relates that this king persecuted the Church and burned the secular and regular clergy of Kildare. But Lanigan discredits that account, pointing out that old writers describe this monarch's reign as peaceable and prosperous. The Four Masters do record a great fire in 709, and the suggestion is that some clerics may have lost their lives in the flames, which may have given occasion to the story. So what came down as a tale of burning may have begun with a town consumed by fire.

John Therry's birth and formative years in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1791–1812

The Venerable Archpriest and Apostle of Australia, John Joseph Therry, was born in Cork in 1791 to devout Christian parents who raised him in virtue and piety from childhood. He later entered Carlow College in 1812 to prepare for the priesthood.

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“ John Therry of Cork,” appears on the Roll of Students in 1812. The Very Rev. John Joseph Therry, the Venerable Archpriest and Apostle of Australia, was born at Cork in the year 1791. He had the inestimable advantage of being born of enlightened and exemplary Christian parents who trained him to virtue and piety from his childhood. In 1812, he entered Carlow College to prepare himself for the priesthood, where he made his course of ecclesiastical studies, having for his Professor of Theology, Dr. Doyle, afterwards the illustrious Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. During his collegiate career he secured the affectionate regards of his superiors and formed many friendships which lasted for life. He was a class-fellow of the present Patriarchal Parish Priest of Abbeyleix, the Rev. Thomas Nolan, who describes Father Therry as smart and intelligent, but of retiring habits. Even at this early period his mind was strongly directed to that species of labour to which he afterwards devoted his life. He organized, we are told, an Association of young ecclesiastics to engage to recite certain prayers, daily, for the spread of the light of the Gospel amongst those who were seated in darkness. Those young men also offered their lives to God for His service in foreign countries if it should please Him, by any special sign, to manifest an acceptance of that oblation. Father Therry was ordained priest in April, 1815, by the Most Rev. Dr. Troy, Archbishop of Dublin. His first mission was in Cork, the city of his birth. He was attached to the Church of SS. Peter and Paul, where he remained two years. He was then transferred to the Cathedral, where he ministered for three years. During this time he resided with the Bishop, the Right Rev. Dr. Murphy, to whom he was strongly attached, and who loved him with a paternal affection. But in the midst of this happy and useful life in his native city, his mind still retained its early bent ; he awaited only the call to a more extended and arduous field of missionary labour. A circumstance occurred at this time that directed his attention to Australia. "Walking one day in the streets of Cork, a waggon passed him containing a number of his countrymen hand-cuffed, and guarded by a military escort. On inquiry, he found that they were convicts being conveyed to the hulk, about to sail for Botany Bay. He at once went into an adjoining book-seller’s

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 175

As the companion tells it

Cork is the city where John Joseph Therry was born in 1791, a man later called the Apostle of Australia. His parents were described as enlightened and exemplary Christians who trained him in virtue and piety from childhood. In 1812 he entered Carlow College to prepare for the priesthood, studying theology under Dr. Doyle, who became Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. Even as a student he was known for retiring habits, though a classfellow, the Reverend Thomas Nolan, called him smart and intelligent. He organized an association of young ecclesiastics who recited daily prayers for the spread of the Gospel among those who were seated in darkness, and offered their lives for service in foreign countries. After ordination in April 1815 by Archbishop Troy of Dublin, he returned to Cork, his first mission, serving at the Church of Saints Peter and Paul for two years, then at the Cathedral for three. He lived with Bishop Murphy, who loved him with a paternal affection. But his mind kept its early bent toward missionary labour abroad. One day walking in the streets of Cork, a waggon passed him carrying a number of his countrymen handcuffed and guarded by a military escort. He learned they were convicts being conveyed to a hulk, about to sail for Botany Bay. He went at once into an adjoining bookseller's shop. That moment set the course of his life toward Australia.

Kildare Recusants Fail to Appear and Take Oath of Abjuration, 1659

Naas · town · Kildare · 1659

At a general sessions of the peace held at Naas on 18 January 1659, the same recusants previously presented from throughout County Kildare were called but failed to appear or take and subscribe the oath of abjuration required under the Cromwellian penal act, thereby incurring default.

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sq., Justices ^signed to keep His Highness’ peace in the county aforesaid by virtue of His His Highness’ Comns., under the great seale of Ireland bearing date the Thirtieth day of September, in the yeare of our Lord, 1658, to them and other, their fellowes Justices of the peace and keepers of the peace in and throughout the said county and to hear and determine several], tresspasses, offences, and mis! demeanours m the said county, directed, the said Walter daughter &c., (here all the above names are repeated), being solemnly called’ did not appear, nor any of them Did appeare, nor take, nor subscribe the said oath of abjuration mentioned in the said Act, but made Default and every one of them Did make Default and Did not enter his or their appearance upon Records, according to the forms and enects of the said Act of Parliament.
Rob. Meredith.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 308

As the companion tells it

Naas here in County Kildare is where, on the 18th of January 1659, a general sessions of the peace was held. Justices had been commissioned under the great seal of Ireland the previous September to keep the peace throughout the county. A group of recusants, already named and presented from across Kildare, were solemnly called to appear and to take and subscribe the oath of abjuration required under the Cromwellian penal act. Not one of them did. They did not appear, nor did any enter their appearance upon the records. Every one of them made default. The clerk, Rob. Meredith, recorded it all.

Knockbeg mansion acquired for St. Mary's Preparatory School

Knockbeg · townland · Laois · 1854–1875

Dr. James Ignatius Taylor, during his administration of Carlow College, acquired the mansion and lands of Knockbeg, once the residence of the Carruther family and earlier the Bests, establishing St. Mary's Preparatory School there in connection with the Lay College.

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Amongst the memorials of his successful Administration of Carlow College wasthe acquisition of the mansionand lands of Knockbeg, and the establishment there of St. Mary’s Preparatory School in connexion with the Lay College. This fine old place had been the residence of the Carruther family, and further back, of the Bests. It is mentioned in the MS. notes of “Journey to Kilkenny in 1709,” by Dr. Thomas Molyneux*
* Edited by Dean Greaves , and published in the Journal of the Archaeological Society of Ireland. The tour of Dr. Molyneux was commenced on Tuesday, the 8th November, 1709, on which day he left Dublin, and in fivehours’ time, came to Naas where he lay the night. He then passed through Blessington, Ballymore-Eustace, Dunlavin, Timolin, and Kilkea, and so to Bealin, “ a fine improved seat of Mr. Stradford’s,” — about an hour from whence he crossed the Barrow 4<at a very deep ford at Shroule,” and, half a mile from thence, to “ Cousin Best’s at Knockbeg in the Queen’s County.” From Knockbeg he made some excursions, amongst others to the ruins of Killeshin which he describes, and, returning again, stayed there till the 19th.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 220

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here is Knockbeg, where Dr. James Ignatius Taylor, during his administration of Carlow College, acquired the mansion and its lands and established St. Mary's Preparatory School in connection with the Lay College. This was between 1854 and 1875. The fine old place had been the residence of the Carruther family, and before them, the Bests. It appears in the manuscript notes of a journey made in 1709 by Dr. Thomas Molyneux, who called it, in his own words, "Cousin Best's at Knockbeg in the Queen's County." He had left Dublin on Tuesday the 8th of November, 1709, and travelled through Naas, Blessington, Ballymore-Eustace, Dunlavin, Timolin, and Kilkea to Bealin, the seat of Mr. Stradford. About an hour from there he crossed the Barrow at a deep ford at Shroule, and half a mile on he reached Knockbeg. From Knockbeg he made excursions, including one to the ruins of Killeshin, which he describes, and returned to stay there until the 19th.

MacGeoghegan renews Dominican convents at Athy and Mullingar

Athy · town · Kildare · 1618–1629

As Dominican Provincial, Roche MacGeoghegan almost renewed the Convents in Dublin, Mullingar and Athy, working to restore the Order's presence in Ireland.

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Dr. MacGeoghegan, who was connected by blood with some of the first families in Ireland, was born in the year 1580. He was an alumnus of the Dominican Convent at Mullingar ; when thirteen years of age, he was sent to the Irish College of Lisbon, where he took the habit of St. Dominic. From Lisbon he went to Salamanca, where he spent eight years. He was then sent, by the General Chapter of Madrid, to revive his Order in Ireland, where it had, well-nigh, died out. We learn from De Burgo ( Hib . Dom. p. 610), that at the death of Elizabeth there were only four members of the Dominican Order in Ireland. In 1618, they were again a numerous body, full of energy and zeal, under the guidance of Father Boche MacGeoghegan. {Archbps. Dub. p. 284.) He was present at the General Chapter of the Dominicans, at Milan, in 1622, and was there appointed Provincial for Ireland. Eeturning home, he established a novitiate in the Convent of Orlare, Co. Mayo, and laboured hard for the restoration of his Order. He was very strict in selfdiscipline, and was much given to fasting and contemplation, being accustomed to spend four hours daily in solitary meditation. He almost renewed the Convents in Dublin, Mullingar and Athy. Even when a Bishop, he retained the rigour of his monastic rule. It is asserted that he converted Sir Arthur Blundel, Vice- Treasurer, in 1625, and also one O’Doyne of Trinity College, Dublin. He subsequently resigned the Provincialate and proceeded to Louvain, where he assisted in founding a Convent of Irish Dominicans. He was consecrated at Brussels, by the Archbishop of Mechlin, soon after the date of his appointment to Kildare. He appears not to have taken possession of his See for a considerable time after ; in the Wadding MSS. Vol. 2, No. 93, a letter written by Dr. MacGeoghegan appears, recommending Fr. John De Burgo, D.D., priest of the Diocese of Clonfert, to be appointed Bishop of that See ; it is dated from the College of St. John the Baptist, Louvain, 10th October, 1629. His subsequent career in Ireland was distinguished by zeal and laborious exertion
32

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 33

As the companion tells it

The town of Athy is one of the places where the Dominican Order nearly died and then, through one man's labour, almost lived again. At the death of Elizabeth, there were only 4 members of the Dominican Order left in all of Ireland. The Order had well-nigh died out. Roche MacGeoghegan was born in 1580, connected by blood to some of the first families in Ireland. He was an alumnus of the Dominican Convent at Mullingar. At 13, he was sent to the Irish College of Lisbon, where he took the habit of St. Dominic. From Lisbon he went to Salamanca and spent 8 years there. The General Chapter of Madrid then sent him back to revive his Order in Ireland. By 1618, under his guidance, the Dominicans were again a numerous body, full of energy and zeal. In 1622, he attended the General Chapter of the Dominicans at Milan and was appointed Provincial for Ireland. He established a novitiate in the Convent of Orlare, County Mayo, and laboured hard for the restoration of his Order. He was very strict in self-discipline, much given to fasting and contemplation, accustomed to spend 4 hours daily in solitary meditation. He almost renewed the Convents in Dublin, Mullingar, and Athy. He converted Sir Arthur Blundel, Vice-Treasurer, in 1625, and one O'Doyne of Trinity College, Dublin. He later resigned the Provincialate and went to Louvain, where he helped found a Convent of Irish Dominicans. He was consecrated at Brussels by the Archbishop of Mechlin after his appointment to Kildare. A letter of his, dated 10th October 1629, from the College of St. John the Baptist, Louvain, recommends Fr. John De Burgo, a priest of the Diocese of Clonfert, to be appointed Bishop of that See.

Prelates assembled at Clonmacnoise, 1649

Clonmacnoise · townland · Offaly · 1649

Dr. Dempsy was present at an assembly of Catholic prelates at Clonmacnoise in 1649, acting in the double capacity of Bishop of Leighlin and Procurator of Waterford.

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Dr. Dempsy is found taking a most active part in the ecclesiastical and national affairs of the country up to the time when he was driven into exile. He was amongst the Prelates assembled at Clonmacnoise, in 1649, being present in the double capacity of Bishop of Leighlin and Procurator of Waterford. ( Spic . Ossor. l,p. 327.) From Clonmacnoise we find Dr. Dempsy writing, on the 12th of December, 1649, renewing a previous recommendation to have his kinsman, James Dempsy, Yicar- Apostolic of Kildare, appointed Bishop of that See. (Id. 1, p. 328.) A Commission from the Catholic Prelates, dated Cavan, 2nd of May, 1650, was addressed to Feagh O’Toole, Colonel of the Confederate Catholics, authorizing him to levy and take the command of a regiment of foot and a troop of horse, for the service of the country. This document bears the signatures of the Bishop of Leighlin and of the Yicar- Apostolic of Kildare, and is as follows : —
“To Col. Luke, alias Pheagh O’Tuhille, greeting, in our Lord God

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 65

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Clonmacnoise, Catholic prelates gathered in 1649, and among them was Dr. Dempsy. He came in a double capacity, as Bishop of Leighlin and as Procurator of Waterford. He had been taking an active part in the ecclesiastical and national affairs of the country, and he continued to do so up to the time he was driven into exile. From Clonmacnoise, on the 12th of December 1649, Dr. Dempsy wrote a letter renewing an earlier recommendation. He wanted his kinsman James Dempsy, Vicar-Apostolic of Kildare, to be appointed Bishop of that See. The following year brought a further commission. The Catholic Prelates, dated from Cavan on the 2nd of May 1650, addressed it to Feagh O'Toole, Colonel of the Confederate Catholics. They authorized him to levy and take command of a regiment of foot and a troop of horse, for the service of the country. The document bears the signatures of the Bishop of Leighlin and of the Vicar-Apostolic of Kildare.

Tullow chapel reduced to ruin, lease unobtainable

Tullow · town · Carlow · 1800

In the Bishop's parish of Tullow, County Carlow, a ground rent of £10 4s. 6d. was paid for the town chapel which had been reduced almost to a heap of ruin, with the parish unable to obtain a lease to rebuild it.

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In the income of Myshall, too, in the County of Carlow, is comprised a grant of ground to the Parish Priest, jointly, from Mr. Cornwall and Mr. Bagot, the landlords, to the amount of £30 per annum ; the chapel, rent-free, owes principally its existence to the former gentleman’s bounty and liberal exertions in its behalf. Not so, may I be permitted to remark, in the Bishop’s parish of Tullow, in the same County, where a ground rent of £10 4s. 6d. is paid for the town chapel, actually, for the greater part, reduced almost to a heap of ruin, without our being able to obtain, hitherto, a lease to rebuild the same.*
“ Parishes in the Dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin, forty-three in number ; all, except Mountrath, composed, it is supposed, of from two to six or eight, and in some instances, more unions. There is only one religious house in the Diocese of Leighlin, and that of the Carmelite Order, in Leighlin-Bridge, consisting of two members. There is a Franciscan Friar resident in Carlow, but no convent. In the above number of Curates and Coadjutors in the Diocese of Leighlin, there are several regulars, but no Parish Priest of that order in Leighlin any more than Kildare.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 273

As the companion tells it

The town of Tullow, in County Carlow, was the Bishop's parish, and its town chapel stood, for the greater part, reduced almost to a heap of ruin. A ground rent of £10 4s. 6d. was paid for it, and yet no lease could be obtained to rebuild it. The contrast was sharp with Myshall, elsewhere in the same county, where the landlords Mr. Cornwall and Mr. Bagot had granted ground to the Parish Priest worth £30 per annum, and the chapel stood rent-free, owing its existence chiefly to Mr. Cornwall's bounty. In Tullow there was no such generosity. The dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin held forty-three parishes. All except Mountrath were unions, composed of from two to six or eight parishes, and in some instances more. In the Diocese of Leighlin there was only one religious house, of the Carmelite Order, at Leighlin-Bridge, with two members. A Franciscan friar lived in Carlow, but had no convent. Among the curates and coadjutors of the Diocese of Leighlin there were several regulars, but no parish priest of that order in Leighlin any more than in Kildare.

1642 Battle of Ballinvegga between Preston and Ormond

Ballinvegga · townland · Wexford · 1642

Ballinvegga, the birthplace of Bishop Doyle, was the scene of a military engagement in 1642 between General Preston and Ormond, in which Preston was defeated.

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* Ballinvegga was the scene of an engagement in 1642, between General Preston and Ormond, in which the former was defeated.
94

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 91

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here at Ballinvegga, a battle was fought in 1642. General Preston and Ormond faced each other, and Preston was defeated. This place was also the birthplace of Bishop Doyle.

1748 Synod at Leighlin Bridge on Clandestine Marriages

Leighlinbridge · town · Carlow · 1748

The Bishop and clergy of the Diocese of Leighlin assembled at Leighlin Bridge in 1748 and enacted a series of laws against clandestine marriages performed without parental consent or the licence of parish priests, imposing suspension or excommunication on offending clergy.

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“ Whereas several destructive practices, by the malice of Satan, have gradually crept into the Diocese of Leighlin, particularly clandestine marriages, which are generally contracted without consent of parents or licence of the respective Parish Priests, and that through the wanton passion of men and women to couple together without the due dispositions for that most holy institution of Matrimony, which St. Paul in his Ep. to the Ephes., calls a great Sacrament in Christ and in His Church, and through the sordid itch of gain in some mercenary and profligate clergymen who, to the great scandal of the faithful and ruin of families, scruple not, for a piece of money, to sell their own and the contracting parties’ souls to the author of such pernicious abuses, the devil, by profaning matrimony, a Sacrament of the living, and administering it to such as are dead to Christ by sin of lust and disobedience to parents and pastors, besides other crimes they be then guilty of. Nay, what is more abominable and unpardonable, some, in open contempt of God’s laws and those of our holy Mother the Church, attempt to marry in prohibited degrees of consanguinity and affinity without being dispensed with, in order thereby more readily to obtain a dispensation. — To prevent so great an evil and other abuses hereafter to be mentioned, which cannot fail of provoking the Almighty’s wrath, We, the Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese of Leighlin, assembled at Leighlin Bridge on the of 1748, have unani-
mously made and (published) the following laws and constitutions : —

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 79

As the companion tells it

Leighlinbridge, in Carlow, was where the Bishop and clergy of the Diocese of Leighlin gathered in 1748 to act against clandestine marriages. They said several destructive practices had crept into the diocese through the malice of Satan, particularly marriages contracted without the consent of parents or the licence of parish priests. They blamed the wanton passion of men and women coupling together without due dispositions for the holy institution of matrimony, which Saint Paul called a great sacrament in Christ and in His Church. They also blamed what they called the sordid itch of gain in some mercenary and profligate clergymen who, for a piece of money, sold their own souls and the contracting parties' souls to the devil by profaning matrimony. These clergymen administered the sacrament to people the bishops considered dead to Christ through lust and disobedience to parents and pastors. What they found even more abominable was that some people, in open contempt of God's laws and the Church's laws, attempted to marry within prohibited degrees of consanguinity and affinity without dispensation, in order more readily to obtain one. To prevent these evils and other abuses, the Bishop and clergy, assembled at Leighlin Bridge in 1748, unanimously made and published laws and constitutions, imposing suspension or excommunication on offending clergy.

Bishop Lane buried in his own Church at Kildare, effigy disputed

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1513

Edmund Lane died about 1513 and was buried in his own Church at Kildare. A monumental effigy of a Bishop, without inscription, still seen at Kildare, is supposed to be his, though this is doubted.

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under the presidency of Archbishop Walter Fitzsimon. Ware states that he died in 1522, but this is a mistake, as the Consistorial Act, appointing his successor, in 1 526, mentions that the See had been vacant 13 years. Therefore, Dr. Lane must have died about the year 1513. He was buried in his own Church. Ware adds that a monumental effigy of a Bishop, still to be seen at Kildare, without any inscription, is supposed to be that of this Prelate. The reasons for doubting the accuracy of this supposition have been already stated. (See p. 14.) In Harris's Ware an engraving is given of a seal, inscribed: “ Sigillum Edmundi, Dei Gra. Darensis Epi. 1496.” This seal represents two figures under a double canopy, probably those of SS. Brigid and Conlaeth ; below, within a niche, is a Bishop in his robes, seated ; on each side of him is a shield, charged with armorial bearings. (Fasti.)
During the prolonged vacancy that intervened in this See, after the death of Dr. Lane, a suit at law was carried on between Hugh Inge, Archbishop of Dublin, and the Dean and Chapter of Kildare, concerning the right of visiting the Diocese of Kildare during the vacancy of the See. This disputed point was finally referred to the arbitration of Dermod, Bishop of Kilmore, a learned Canonist, and Walter Wellesley, Prior of Conall. There is extant (Lib. Niger , p. 35), a copy of a bond for £40, executed by the said Archbishop, to the Dean and Chapter of Kildare, dated the 13th of November, 1523, and conditioned to stand by the arbitration of the said persons. How the controversy ended is not recorded. (Harris's Ware.)

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 22

As the companion tells it

The town of Kildare holds the grave of Edmund Lane, a bishop who died about 1513. He was buried in his own church there. Ware gives the year of his death as 1522, but that is a mistake. A Consistorial Act appointing his successor records that the See had been vacant 13 years, which places his death around 1513. Ware adds that a monumental effigy of a bishop can still be seen at Kildare, without any inscription, and is supposed to be Lane's, though the accuracy of that supposition is doubted. A seal engraved in Harris's Ware is inscribed "Sigillum Edmundi, Dei Gra. Darensis Epi. 1496." It shows two figures under a double canopy, probably SS. Brigid and Conlaeth. Below, within a niche, a bishop sits in his robes, a shield bearing armorial bearings on each side. After Lane's death the See remained vacant a long time. During that vacancy a suit at law went on between Hugh Inge, Archbishop of Dublin, and the Dean and Chapter of Kildare, over the right of visiting the Diocese of Kildare while the See was empty. The dispute was referred to the arbitration of Dermod, Bishop of Kilmore, a learned Canonist, and Walter Wellesley, Prior of Conall. A copy survives of a bond for 40 pounds, executed by the Archbishop to the Dean and Chapter of Kildare, dated the 13th of November, 1523, conditioned to stand by the arbitration of those men. How the controversy ended is not recorded.

Bishop Nolan's death at Carlow Cathedral commemorated

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1794–1837

An epitaph tablet in the Presentation Convent chapel at Carlow commemorates Bishop Edward Nolan, who served fourteen years as chaplain to the Sisters there before his consecration. The Sisters, grieving deeply at his death, erected the memorial largely through the liberality of local clergy.

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Right Rev. Edward Nolan, Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, a man of God, a master of the spiritual life, meek, humble, pious, retiring, learned,
Who during fourteen years that he was Professor in the College of Carlow devoted himself to cultivate in this Community the genuine Spirit of the Religious state by the zealous exercise of jhis sacred ministry, by his enlightened guidance, but still more by his own saintly example.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 133

As the companion tells it

Close to Carlow, an epitaph tablet in the Presentation Convent chapel commemorates Bishop Edward Nolan, Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. For 14 years he was Professor in the College of Carlow. He devoted himself to cultivating in this Community the genuine Spirit of the Religious state through his sacred ministry, his enlightened guidance, and his saintly example. The grieving Sisters erected the memorial largely through the liberality of local clergy.

Cahill's boarding-school at Seapoint, Williamstown

Williamstown · townland · Dublin · 1835

In 1835 Daniel William Cahill opened a boarding-school at Seapoint, Williamstown, County Dublin, which he later transferred to Prospect, Blackrock in 1840.

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Dr. Cahill, who was one of the most conspicuous and popular ecclesiastics of his time, was born at Ashfield, in the parish of Arless, Queen’s County, November 28th, 1796. He was the third son of Daniel Cahill, C.E., and Catherine Brett. He received his rudimentary education at Ferris’s Academy, Athy. In 1816, he was appointed to a place in Maynooth College by Bishop Corcoran, to whom he was related. On the completion of his studies, he received Ordination at the hands of the Bight Bev. Dr. Doyle, and was immediately appointed to the Curacy of Leighlin-Bridge. In 1825 Dr. Cahill came to Carlow College as Professor of Natural Philosophy, which position he continued to occupy until the close of the year 1834. In 1834 he established a school at Carlow ; in 1835 he opened a hoardingschool at Seapoint, Williamstown, County Dublin ; which, in 1840, he transferred to Prospect, Blackrock. About 1850 we find him at Esker, from which time he resided in the vicinity of Dublin until the year 1859 ; during this period he was constantly engaged, not only in various parts of this country, but also in the chief towns in England and Scotland, preaching charity sermons, and delivering lectures, especially on Astronomy and other philososphical subjects, — his presence in pulpit or on platform being ever sure to bring together an overflowing and enthusiastic audience. He was also, for a short time, Editor of The Advocate , a Journal that had but a brief career. In 1859, Dr. Cahill carried into effect a resolution he had formed long before, of visiting America. He visited many parts of the United States and British America, constantly engaged in preaching and lecturing, being received everywhere, especially by his own countrymen, with enthusiasm. Feeling his health failing in 1864, he determined to return to his native country, but Providence ordered it otherwise. After a protracted and painful illness, which he sanctified by the exercise of Christian patience and resignation to the Divine Will, he breathed his last in the city of Boston, on the 28th of October, 1864, in the 68th year of his age. Several of his Sermons, Lectures, etc., have been published in a collected form, making up two portly octavo volumes.* When intelligence of his demise reached Ireland, a Solemn Bequiem Office for the repose of his soul, took place in Carlow Cathedral, at which the Bishop, the Bight Bev. Dr. Walshe, and a very large number of the clergy of the

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 194

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1835, Daniel William Cahill opened a boarding-school at Seapoint, Williamstown, County Dublin. He kept it here for five years, then transferred it to Prospect, Blackrock, in 1840. Cahill was one of the most conspicuous and popular ecclesiastics of his time. He was born at Ashfield, in the parish of Arless, Queen's County, on the 28th of November 1796. He was the third son of Daniel Cahill and Catherine Brett. He received his rudimentary education at Ferris's Academy in Athy. In 1816, Bishop Corcoran, to whom he was related, appointed him to a place in Maynooth College. On completing his studies there, he was ordained by Dr. Doyle and appointed immediately to the curacy of Leighlin-Bridge. In 1825 he came to Carlow College as Professor of Natural Philosophy, and held that position until the close of 1834. He also established a school at Carlow in 1834, the year before he opened the one here at Seapoint. After moving the school to Blackrock, he later appears at Esker around 1850. From then until 1859 he lived near Dublin, travelling constantly through Ireland, England, and Scotland, preaching charity sermons and delivering lectures on astronomy and other philosophical subjects. His presence in pulpit or on platform always drew an overflowing and enthusiastic audience. He edited The Advocate for a short time, a journal that had but a brief career. In 1859 he sailed for America, preaching and lecturing across the United States and British America, received everywhere with enthusiasm. His health failed in 1864. He died in Boston on the 28th of October 1864, in the 68th year of his age. When word reached Ireland, a solemn requiem was held in Carlow Cathedral.

Clergy Summoned to Carlow Cathedral to Nominate a Coadjutor Bishop

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1834

In April 1834, with his health failing, Dr. Doyle summoned the parochial clergy of Kildare and Leighlin to a meeting in the Cathedral Church in Carlow to nominate three ecclesiastical persons for consideration as his Coadjutor.

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“ Rev. Sir, — His Holiness, the Pope, by virtue of a rescript, directed to me, bearing date the 9th of March last past, having graciously permitted me to convene a meeting of the parochial clergy of these dioceses, to be held in the manner and form prescribed by the Decree of the Congregation of the 17th October, 1829, at such time and place as I might appoint, conformably to the said decree, for the purpose that the said clergy would commend, by their suffrages, three ecclesiastical persons to his Holiness, of whom he might be pleased to appoint one my Coadjutor, with a right of succession in these Sees. Now these presents are sent to apprise you of the above, and to require your attendance at a meeting of the aforesaid clergy, to be held in our Cathedral Church in Carlow, for the purpose above-named, at the hour of 10 o’clock in the forenoon, on Monday, the 21st April, instant.
“Dated at Carlow, the 3rd day of April, 1834.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 106

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in the Cathedral Church in Carlow, the parochial clergy of Kildare and Leighlin were called together in April 1834. Dr. Doyle's health was failing, and he needed a Coadjutor bishop to succeed him. The Pope had granted permission by a rescript dated the 9th of March, allowing Doyle to convene the meeting under a decree of the Congregation from the 17th of October, 1829. Doyle's letter, dated at Carlow on the 3rd of April, required the clergy to attend at 10 o'clock in the forenoon on Monday, the 21st of April. Their purpose was to commend, by their suffrages, three ecclesiastical persons, of whom the Pope might be pleased to appoint one as Coadjutor, with a right of succession in the Sees.

Commission to Feagh O'Toole issued from Cavan

Cavan · town · Cavan · 1650

A Commission dated at Cavan on 2 May 1650, signed by the Bishop of Leighlin among others, authorized Feagh O'Toole to levy and command a regiment of foot and troop of horse for the Confederate Catholics.

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Sir, — The pressing calamatie of this Kingdom, wherewith the Holy Catholique, Apostolic and Roman religion, his sacred Majesties right, and the just liberties of us his loyall subjects, are like to be trode under foote by a company of prophane and mechanical Rebells (made instruments of God’s wrath to punish our sinnes), together with the confidence we have in your zeal, worth and wisdom to redeem those soe deare pleadges, invites us to call to your assistance, Giving you hereby full power and authoritie to levie, leade and command a Regiment of foot, and a troupe of horse, praying you to containe the said Regiment and Troupe as much as may be, from incurring God’s just anger, especially from oppressing the poore, swering, and stealing ; Giving you to understand we are hereunto authorized by his Excellency the Lord Lieutenant, Marquess of Ormond, as appeareth from his letter, dated at Loughriagh, the first of last April. Wee also pray you, with the consent of the gentry there, to choose among yourselves in those partes, a commander in cheefe, and that each Colonel

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 65

As the companion tells it

The town of Cavan was where a commission was issued on 2 May 1650, granting Feagh O'Toole the power to levy, lead, and command a regiment of foot and a troop of horse. The signatories included the Bishop of Leighlin, and their authority came from the Lord Lieutenant, the Marquess of Ormond, whose own letter was dated at Loughriagh on the first of April. The commission's language framed the pressing calamity of the kingdom, warning that the Catholic religion, the king's right, and the liberties of his loyal subjects were like to be trodden underfoot by a company of rebels, described as instruments of God's wrath sent to punish their sins. Those who signed it spoke of their confidence in Feagh O'Toole's zeal, worth, and wisdom to redeem what they called those dear pledges. They gave him full power and authority to raise his regiment and troop, but prayed he contain them from incurring God's anger, especially from oppressing the poor, swearing, and stealing. They also asked that, with the consent of the gentry in those parts, a commander in chief be chosen among themselves.

Consecration of Bishop James Walshe at Carlow Cathedral

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1856

Dr Walshe was consecrated Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin on Low Sunday, 30th March 1856, in Carlow Cathedral, by Archbishop Paul Cullen, assisted by the Bishops of Ossory and Ferns.

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Dr. Walshe was elected Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin by Propaganda, January the 28th ; Approved by the Pope, February 3rd ; and Decreed, February 14th, 1856. He was Consecrated on Low Sunday, March 30th, 1856, in Carlow Cathedral, by the Most Rev. Paul Cullen, Archbishop of Dublin, assisted by the Right Rev. Edward Walsh, Bishop of Ossory, and the Right Rev. Myles Murphy, Bishop of Ferns. The
BISHOPS OF KILDARE AND LEIGHLIN.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

As the companion tells it

Close to Carlow, in the cathedral, Dr Walshe was consecrated Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin on Low Sunday, 30 March 1856. Archbishop Paul Cullen of Dublin performed the consecration, assisted by Edward Walsh, Bishop of Ossory, and Myles Murphy, Bishop of Ferns. Walshe had been elected by Propaganda on 28 January, approved by the Pope on 3 February, and decreed on 14 February 1856.

Dr. Clancy consecrated Bishop in Carlow Cathedral

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1834

Dr. William Clancy was consecrated in Carlow Cathedral on Sunday, 21st December 1834, as Bishop of Oriense and Coadjutor of Charleston. The Consecration Sermon was preached by the Very Rev. Michael O'Sullivan, an alumnus of Carlow College.

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more at liberty to fulfil his duties as Legate. Dr. Clancy was consecrated in Carlow Cathedral on Sunday, the 21st of December, 1834, as Bishop of Oriense, and Coadjutor of Charleston. The Very Key. Michael O’Sullivan, himself an alumnus of Carlow College, who was afterwards Vicar-General of Cork and Superior of the House of the Vincentian Fathers in that city, preached the Consecration Sermon. In an address to the Hierarchy, Clergy, and People of Ireland, dated Carlow College, January 1835, asking for aid for his mission, Dr. Clancy writes : — “For himself, individually, Dr. Clancy wants, and asks nothing but the prayers of the pious for his spiritual necessities — a sum sufficient to defray his own personal expenses has been offered by a layman, and thankfully accepted as a loan. By leaving his situation in Ireland, he has already sacrificed as much temporal happiness as it was possible for an ecclesiastic to enjoy in this life. Accustomed to the literary, and moderable habits of an academic career for the last five years — enjoying the confidence and society of the learned, religious, and respected President and Professors of Carlow College (which has been to him truly an Alma Mater,) trained, moreover, to the fatiguing but meritorious duties of a city and country curate, in Cork, for seven years previously — edified by the labours, virtues, and disinterestedness of the clergy of Kildare and Leighlin, and the neighbouring dioceses — honoured, also, by the acquaintance and friendship of that apostolic light and pillar of the Irish Catholic Church, Dr. Doyle, and his able, prudent, and amiable successor. Under the influence of such education and examples, he is, and must be contented, as an American Coadjutor, with much mental and bodily labour, and little or no reward from men — in fact, with food, and raiment the mere necessaries of temporal existence ; not unmindful, however, of the eternal crown which may await him, and his fellow-labourers, if the Deity sustains such feeble instruments during their transitory duties in his own vineyard.” Eight Kev. Francis Patrick Kenrick, then Coadjutor Bishop of Philadelphia, writing to the Right Kev. Dr. Nolan, on Ascension Thursday, 1836, remarks : — “ Dr. Clancy has returned to Charleston from Hayti, and is now engaged in the Visitation of that wilderness of a Diocese, which has been hitherto the scene of the labours of the illustrious Dr. England. He, no doubt, lets his Irish friends know how inen viable is his lot. I have long regretted that the splendid talents and vast erudition of Dr. England were wasted in the government of a few thousand Catholics, scattered over an immense tract of country ; but now two Bishops are to labour on that ungrateful soil. An Irish curacy would give far more employment, and afford much

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 197

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in Carlow Cathedral, Dr. William Clancy was consecrated on Sunday the 21st of December 1834 as Bishop of Oriense and Coadjutor of Charleston. The Very Reverend Michael O'Sullivan preached the consecration sermon. He was an alumnus of Carlow College, and afterwards became Vicar-General of Cork and Superior of the House of the Vincentian Fathers in that city. In an address to the hierarchy, clergy, and people of Ireland, dated Carlow College, January 1835, Dr. Clancy asked for aid for his mission. He wrote that for himself individually he wanted and asked nothing but the prayers of the pious for his spiritual necessities. A sum sufficient to defray his own personal expenses had been offered by a layman and thankfully accepted as a loan. By leaving his situation in Ireland he had already sacrificed as much temporal happiness as it was possible for an ecclesiastic to enjoy in this life. He had been accustomed to the literary and moderate habits of an academic career for the last five years, enjoying the confidence and society of the learned, religious, and respected president and professors of Carlow College, which had been to him truly an Alma Mater. He had been trained to the fatiguing but meritorious duties of a city and country curate in Cork for seven years previously. He had been edified by the labours, virtues, and disinterestedness of the clergy of Kildare and Leighlin and the neighbouring dioceses, and honoured by the acquaintance and friendship of Dr. Doyle and his able successor. He said he must be contented, as an American Coadjutor, with much mental and bodily labour and little or no reward from men.

Dr Delany dies and is buried in the chapel he built at Tullow

Tullow · town · Carlow · 1814

Dr Delany died at Tullow after a long and painful illness and was interred in the Chapel of that town, which he himself had raised from the foundation.

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made himself all to all that he might gain all to Christ. He died at Tullow, after enduring a long and painful illness, and is interred in the Chapel of that town which he himself had raised from the foundation ”
From a short biographical sketch preserved at the Monastery of Tullow and also from the Annals of the Sisters of St. Brigid, we learn some further particulars regarding this Prelate. He is stated to have been born in 1747 at Paddock, near Mountrath. His parents, who were of the wealthy farming class, had two sons, Daniel and John. Whilst they were yet young, their father died, leaving his children in charge of their mother and their maternal aunts, Mrs. Corcoran and Miss Fitzpatrick. John died young, after which all their love and care were given to the young Daniel, who was a boy of uncommon quickness and cheerfulness. He was very fair and handsome, with a most amiable disposition, and a great love for God and his neighbour.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 88

As the companion tells it

Tullow is a town in Carlow. A man called Dr Delany died here in 1814, after a long and painful illness, and is interred in the chapel of this town, which he himself had raised from the foundation. A short biographical sketch, preserved at the Monastery of Tullow and also in the Annals of the Sisters of St Brigid, tells us more about him. He was born in 1747 at Paddock, near Mountrath. His parents were of the wealthy farming class and had two sons, Daniel and John. Whilst they were yet young, their father died, leaving the children in charge of their mother and their maternal aunts, Mrs Corcoran and Miss Fitzpatrick. John died young, after which all their love and care were given to the young Daniel. He was a boy of uncommon quickness and cheerfulness, very fair and handsome, with a most amiable disposition and a great love for God and his neighbour. He made himself all to all that he might gain all to Christ.

Dr. Taylor's 20-year pastoral legacy at Maryborough

Maryborough · townland · Laois · 1855–1875

Dr. James Ignatius Taylor served as parish priest of Maryborough for 20 years, during which he raised schools, embellished churches, and nearly completed a convent before his death; his memorial notice praises his lasting influence on the parish's people.

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“ Schools raised, churches embellished, every interest of religion carefully secured, a convent nearly completed, which, that he did not live to complete was the final cross, patiently borne, with which God ended his labours — these are monuments conspicuous in the sight of the world of his 20 years in Maryboro’. But those who knew him know there are other monuments of his fatherly charity, less conspicuous, but not less substantial, which only the eye of God can see in the grateful hearts of those who found in him a friend when friends were hard to find, and a father whose acts as well as his office made him a fitting representative of their Father in Heaven. Doing well the part of a good and faithful servant, so far from letting anything interfere with his proper work, it was a marked feature in Dr. Taylor’s character — a feature of which those who had the privilege of being his friends will fondly cherish the remembrance— that every claim, social and political, that was made upon him was tested first of all by its estimated bearing on the interests of the Church and the glory of God. An accomplished scholar, a polished gentleman, a true friend in that elevated sense which religion alone can bestow upon the word, a counsellor whose rare prudence was a light in very darkness, a lover of God and a worker for men, a holy priest and a good pastor — the people of Maryboro’, the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, the Irish Church have lost in Dr. Taylor one whose loss will be deeply mourned and not easily supplied.”
The Rev. John Magee, D.D.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 221

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Maryborough, Dr. James Ignatius Taylor spent twenty years as parish priest. The record of those years names the things he built and left behind. Schools raised. Churches embellished. A convent nearly completed, and that he did not live to finish it was called the final cross, patiently borne, with which God ended his labours. These are described as monuments conspicuous in the sight of the world of his twenty years in Maryborough. But the passage says those who knew him knew there were other monuments, less conspicuous but not less substantial, which only the eye of God can see in the grateful hearts of those who found in him a friend when friends were hard to find, and a father whose acts as well as his office made him a fitting representative of their Father in Heaven. It was a marked feature in his character, the passage says, that every claim made upon him, social and political, was tested first by its estimated bearing on the interests of the Church and the glory of God. He is called an accomplished scholar, a polished gentleman, a true friend in that elevated sense which religion alone can bestow upon the word, a counsellor whose rare prudence was a light in very darkness, a lover of God and a worker for men, a holy priest and a good pastor. The people of Maryborough, the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, and the Irish Church, the passage says, have lost one whose loss will be deeply mourned and not easily supplied. The notice is by the Reverend John Magee.

England's lectures at Cork Cathedral

Cork · city · Cork · 1808–1809

On his return to Cork, Mr. England was appointed lecturer at the Cathedral, with the Bishop himself announcing his appointment from the altar and inviting the congregation to attend a series of lectures on the Old and New Testaments.

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“ On his return to Cork, Mr. England was appointed lecturer at the Cathedral. The Bishop himself announced the appointment from the altar, and requested the attendance of the congregation at the lectures. At the Bishop’s request he commenced a series of these on the Old and New Testaments. On Sundays, besides the lectures at the Cathedral, he delivered an exhortation in the small chapel of the Presentation Convent, which was crowded. He was at the time, chaplain of that Convent.
“ On his arrival from Carlo w,. the present Magdalen Asylum, built at the expense of Mr. Therry, was in progress of erection. To this he immediately turned his attention and, up to the time of its opening in June 1809, he assembled six of the unfortunate beings who were to be its future inmates, whom, with the assistance of his friends, he supported, till the house should be opened for their reception, placing them under the care of the person who was afterwards matron of that institution. Another of his labours at the time was the publication of a monthly periodical, The Religious Repertory , which he originated in May of the same year, with a view to diffuse a spirit of piety amongst the people, and to withdraw them from the perusal of books of a dangerous or immoral tendency. He likewise established a circulating Library in the parish of St. Mary’s, Shandon. He next turned his attention to the city jail, and, Government not then allowing a salary for the Roman Catholic Chaplain, gave his services gratuitously for no inconsiderable time. In 1812 he was appointed President of the Diocesan College of St. Mary, opened by Dr. Moylan for the education of Candidates for Holy Orders, and taught in it the Theological course.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 170

As the companion tells it

Cork is the city you're passing through now, and in 1808 it was where Mr. England returned to take up an appointment as lecturer at the Cathedral. The Bishop himself announced the appointment from the altar and asked the congregation to attend. England began a series of lectures on the Old and New Testaments, and on Sundays he also gave an exhortation in the small chapel of the Presentation Convent, where he served as chaplain and where the congregation was crowded. The Magdalen Asylum, built at the expense of Mr. Therry, was under construction at the time, and England gathered six women who were to be its future inmates, supporting them with the help of friends until the house opened in June 1809, and placing them under the care of the person who would become matron. In May of that same year he began publishing a monthly periodical called The Religious Repertory, aiming to spread a spirit of piety and draw people away from books of a dangerous or immoral tendency. He also set up a circulating library in the parish of St. Mary's, Shandon, and turned his attention to the city jail, where he served as Roman Catholic chaplain without pay, since the government allowed no salary for the post. Later, in 1812, he was appointed President of the Diocesan College of St. Mary, opened by Dr. Moylan for the education of candidates for Holy Orders, and he taught the theological course there.

Father Patrick Byrne dies at Park near Carlow

Park · townland · Carlow · 1834

Father Patrick Byrne, former Dean of Carlow College, retired due to ill health and returned to Park near Carlow, where his brother resided, dying there on 9th March 1834 aged 34. He was buried in the College cemetery.

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1837, when he retired from the College, probably on account of ill-health. Having served for a short time on the mission in Dublin, his native diocese, he returned, quite broken down in health, to the neighbourhood of Carlow, to Park, where his brother then resided, and there he died on the Feast of St. Joseph, March 9 th, 1834, aged 34 years. His remains were interred in the cemetery of the College, where the following inscription appears on his tomb : —
“ Hie sepultae sunt reliquiae mortales Rev. Patritii Byrne olirn alumni postea Decani in hoc Collegio Sti. Patritii.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Park, a priest named Father Patrick Byrne came home to die. He had been Dean of the College of St. Patrick at Carlow, but his health broke down. He served for a short time on the mission in Dublin, his native diocese, then returned to Park, where his brother resided. He died there on the Feast of St. Joseph, March 9th, 1834, aged 34 years. His remains were buried in the cemetery of the College. His tomb records that he was first an alumnus and later Dean of that college.

Financial strain at Carlow College amid rising costs

Carlow · townland · Carlow

Carlow College survived on scanty and precarious resources from student pensions after clergy donations were withdrawn, and suffered a severe blow from a sharp rise in the price of provisions and fuel, while competing with the free education offered at Maynooth.

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savings have the various expenses of the establishment been defrayed, and on such scanty, fluctuating, and precarious resources has it even in some degree flourished, till the late enormous rise in the price of provisions, fuel, etc., which has given a mortal blow to our funds in this way ; whilst her younger but highly favoured sister of Maynooth evidently threatens — is it lawful to say ? — to follow it up ere long with the coup de grace , by the vast diminution in the number of students, clerical particularly, before resorting to it from every province of the Kingdom, but who do not, however otherwise well-disposed, choose now to pay at Carlow for what they are invited, all both rich and poor, equally, to partake of gratis within the formers privileged walls. In illustration of the truth of this remark, let me here be permitted to state, that a farmer deemed worth from £14,000 to £15,000, sterling, has made instant application to me to name his son to a place in Maynooth. It is needless to add that his prayer was rejected with indignation'”
“ There are six professors or teachers, resident inmates in the Seminary of Carlow, one of Theology, one of Philosopy, one of Belles Lettres, etc., two, of the Classics, and one of writing, etc. The three first are French Emigrant Priests, at a stipend of fifteen guineas each per annum, as much as could be afforded in the present disastrous circumstances of the house. The Professor of Divinity is nevertheless, a man of distinguished celebrity in his department, and has taught with universal applause in several French Universities. . . . The President, who acts also in capacity of Procurator or Bursar, receives no salary. He is Parish Priest of Carlow.” ( Memoirs and Correspondence of Viscount Castlereagh, Vol. 4, p. 143.)

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 163

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Carlow, a college has been clinging to life on almost nothing. Carlow College survived on scanty, fluctuating, and precarious resources, the remnants of student pensions after clergy donations were withdrawn. Then came what the record calls the late enormous rise in the price of provisions and fuel, and that gave a mortal blow to the funds of the house. The writer called it a mortal blow, and feared worse was coming. Maynooth, described as a younger but highly favoured sister, threatened to deliver the coup de grace. Students who once came to Carlow from every province of the kingdom now chose not to pay for what they were invited to partake of gratis within Maynooth's privileged walls. The writer gave one telling example. A farmer deemed worth from 14,000 to 15,000 pounds sterling made instant application to have his son named to a place in Maynooth. His prayer, the writer noted, was rejected with indignation. At the time, there were six professors or teachers resident in the seminary. One taught theology, one philosophy, one belles lettres, two taught the classics, and one taught writing. The three first were French emigrant priests, paid fifteen guineas each per annum, as much as could be afforded in what the record calls the present disastrous circumstances of the house. The professor of divinity was a man of distinguished celebrity in his department, who had taught with universal applause in several French universities. The president, who also acted as procurator or bursar, received no salary. He was the parish priest of Carlow.

Hamilton appointed military chaplain at the Curragh Camp

near Curragh Camp · population centre · Kildare · 1857

On the occurrence of a vacancy for a military chaplain at the Curragh Camp in December 1857, Bishop Dr. Walshe appointed Father Hamilton to the office, before he later served at Woolwich and Bermuda.

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On the occurrence of a vacancy for a military chaplain at the Curragh Camp in December, 1857, the Bishop, Dr. Walshe, appointed Father Hamilton to the office. He afterwards officiated at Woolwich, and was then ordered on foreign service, and was for several years stationed at Bermuda. Writing from St. George’s, Bermuda, to a friend, on the 7th February, 1866, he thus describes the place : —
“These islands they say are in number 365. To make up that fanciful number, though, mere specks on the water are counted. They are ail composed of a kind of sandstone, whitish, porous, granular, and so soft that it is cut into shapes for building purposes with hatchet and saw. This is not a little odd to a new comer. The rock is everywhere, and makes its appearance everywhere, giving to the surface of the islands a rocky character. That surface, again, is but a confusion of little hills, none half as high as the hill of Allen, but still hills in endless variety of form and combination. Over all the islands you would not find, I do believe, one quarter mile of level ground. All hills. But, strangest of all, these hills and their hollows, and a full three-fourths of the islands, are covered with cedar trees. The whole place might be called a plantation of cedars, — everywhere you go, cedars, cedars on hills, cedars in valleys, cedars by rocks on shore, cedars, cedars everywhere. Alas ! though, they are not what you imagine cedars to be, trees lofty and magnificent. They are little stunted trees, very like the Scotch firs of the bleak hills over with you.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 210

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is the Curragh Camp in Kildare. Back in December 1857 a vacancy arose for a military chaplain here, and Bishop Dr. Walshe appointed Father Hamilton to the office. Hamilton later officiated at Woolwich before being ordered on foreign service, spending several years stationed at Bermuda. Writing from St. George's, Bermuda, on the 7th of February 1866, he described the islands to a friend. He said they are said to number 365, though mere specks on the water are counted to make up that fanciful number. They are all composed of a whitish, porous, granular sandstone, so soft it is cut into shapes for building with hatchet and saw. He found this odd as a newcomer. The surface is a confusion of little hills, none half as high as the hill of Allen, and over all the islands you would not find one quarter mile of level ground. Three-fourths of the islands are covered with cedar trees, little stunted ones, very like the Scotch firs of the bleak hills over with you in Ireland.

Manor of Shanecourt alias Woodstock encroached upon by neighbouring landlords

near Woodstock · street · Galway · 1612

The manor of Shanecourt, alias Woodstock, in Queen's County, originally consisted of eight score acres of arable land in the reign of Edward I, but was so encroached upon by Sir Richard Greame and Piers Ovington that only one acre remained with the house by the time of Bishop Ram's report.

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unyon with the Bishoprick of Femes, “ durante vita,” by vertue of His Maties L**es patent. The annual rent thereof is £24 ster. besides the demeasnes wch are very large, if the Bishop might enjoy his right. But in respect they are almost all mountany grounds, and much of them is withhold en by the neighbours thereof, yeld very little profit. The deteyners of the demeasnes of Old Leighlin are, Sir Richard Butler of Polestone, Knight, Richard Comberford of Ballerloghna, Esqr., Willyam Fannynge of Ballecloghna, Gent., who taking advantage of Rebellion in theis parts and of the often and long vacancy of this poore Bishoprick, had deteyned (and still so doe) almost three miles of land belonginge unto it. The Incroachers of the manor of Shanecourt als. Woodstock in the Queen’s County are Sir Richard Greame of Ballylehan, Knight, and Piers Ovington of Amorstowne Esqr., who have the one of the one side and the other of the other side so encroached upon the sayd mannor, that whereas it consisted of eight score acres arable land in the fift yere of Edward the first as by the Exchetor then beinge, his accompts appeareth in the King’s rowles, and so much hath bin in possession with the Bishop of Leighlin his tennaunt within fiftie years last past : they have left with the house but one acre of land. If I hoped that theis lands could be recovered in lawe by any reasonable charge, [remainder of sheet destroyed.']
[Here follow, as before, list of Benefices, names of Incumbents and value of their livings tempore pacis and reduction propter Rebellionem. The Benefices range generally between £10 and £15, some eight of them exceed that amount, the highest of them being £20 except in the case of “ Rectoria de Roslare cum capella de Ballemoore,” which amounts to £30. The Reduction propter Rebellionem is generally, at least one half — and many are returned as valued at Nihil, under that heading.]

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 236

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Woodstock stood the manor of Shanecourt, also known as Woodstock, in Queen's County. It once amounted to eight score acres of arable land, that being 160 acres, as recorded in the fifth year of Edward I in the King's rolls. The Bishop of Leighlin's tenant held that much within the last fifty years. But two neighbouring landlords encroached on it from either side. Sir Richard Greame of Ballylehan and Piers Ovington of Amorstowne squeezed the manor so thoroughly that by the time of this report, only one acre of land remained with the house. The report, from Bishop Ram's account of the dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin, was written around 1612. The same report notes that the bishopric's demesne lands at Old Leighlin had also been seized by local men who took advantage of rebellion in the area and the long vacancy of the bishopric, detaining almost three miles of land belonging to it. The writer added that if there were hope of recovering these lands by any reasonable charge, the passage continues, but the remainder of the sheet was destroyed.

Monsignor Laurence Dunne, long-serving Pastor of Castledermot

Castledermot · town · Kildare · 1822–1883

Laurence Dunne, ordained in 1822 after eight to ten years at Carlow College, became the Venerable Pastor of Castledermot and was twice recommended, alongside Dr. Cullen, for high ecclesiastical office, maintaining lifelong ties with Carlow College.

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The Venerable Pastor of Castledermot has been, during a long and honoured life-time, so identified with Carlow College, that any record of that Institution which did not include a reference to him, would be notably incomplete. Monsignor Dunne made his full course of ecclesiastical studies at Carlow, as to which and the estimation in which he was there held, we have the high testimony of Doctor Doyle. Writing to Archbishop Troy, July 1st, 1822, Dr. Doyle says: — “The Rev. Laurence Dunne, one of your Grace’s subjects, who has been lately ordained here, desires that I should introduce him to your Grace. He has been at our College for the last eight or ten years ; and in truth, I could not express to your Grace how much the great purity of his life and amiability of his manners endeared him to all his companions and superiors. I have always had a particular affection for him on account of his eminent virtues ; his talents and acquirements are very considerable, and I am confident your Grace will find him an ornament to his profession.” {Life J. K. L., 2, 497.) When, in 1834, in consequence of the failing health of Dr. Doyle, it became necessary to appoint a Coadjutor for Kildare and Leighlin, the dying Prelate, in compliance with the request of a personal friend amongst the clergy who wished for the benefit of his advice, named the then youthful P.P. of Castledermot as second only to the late Cardinal Cullen for the office “Next to him (Dr. Cullen) I would select Laurence Dunne of Castledermot.” (Id.) Again, when the death of Archbishop Murray, in 1852, made it necessary to appoint a successor in the Metropolitan See, the clergy of the Archdiocese, by their suffrages, decided upon recommending to Rome, again in conjunction with that of Dr. Cullen, the name of the Rev. Laurence Dunne. The endeared relations between Archdeacon Dunne and Carlow College, which began full seventy years ago, have never suffered any change. On every occasion, whether festive, literary, or sorrowful, which called together the friends of that Institution, the revered Pastor of Castledermot was never missing ; and his appearance has been always greeted by Superiors and students with the hearty welcome due to an old and valued friend.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 193

As the companion tells it

Castledermot is a town the road passes through, and for much of the 1800s its name was bound up with one man. Monsignor Laurence Dunne served as its Pastor for a lifetime, and his name was never far from Carlow College, where he spent eight or ten years studying before his ordination in 1822. Dr. Doyle, writing to Archbishop Troy on the first of July that year, introduced the newly ordained priest in warm terms. He said the great purity of his life and amiability of his manners had endeared him to all his companions and superiors, and that his talents and acquirements were very considerable. "I am confident your Grace will find him an ornament to his profession." In 1834, as Dr. Doyle's health failed and a Coadjutor was needed for Kildare and Leighlin, the dying prelate named the then youthful parish priest of Castledermot as second only to Dr. Cullen for the office. His words were recorded: "Next to him I would select Laurence Dunne of Castledermot." Again in 1852, after the death of Archbishop Murray, the clergy of the Archdiocese by their suffrages recommended to Rome the name of the Reverend Laurence Dunne, once more in conjunction with that of Dr. Cullen. His ties to Carlow College never weakened over seventy years. On every festive, literary, or sorrowful occasion that called together the friends of that institution, the Pastor of Castledermot was never missing, and his appearance was always greeted by superiors and students with the welcome due to an old and valued friend.

Month's Memory Office for Dr. Doyle in Carlow Cathedral

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1834

On 17 July 1834 the Month's Memory Office of the deceased Prelate was celebrated in the Cathedral of Carlow, attended by a large number of brother Prelates and a vast number of priests. Bishop William Kinsella of Ossory, described as J.K.L.'s bosom friend, delivered a magnificent Oration on the occasion.

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On the 17th of July, 1834, the Month’s Memory Office of the deceased Prelate was celebrated in the Cathedral of Carlow, at which a large number of his brother Prelates and a vast number of priests assisted. The Right Rev. W. Kinsella, Bishop of Ossorjr, the bosom friend of J.K.L., delivered a magnificent Oration on the occasion, from which extracts are here given.
“ His first public writings” (says Bishop Kinsella), “ were in defence of the faith which he professed. The church, of which he was an ornament, was assailed by the most gross and unfounded calumnies, — he wrote to undeceive the credulous — to silence the calumniator — to clear away the base and foul charges brought against the religion he professed.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 109

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in the Cathedral of Carlow, the Month's Memory Office for the deceased Prelate Dr. Doyle was celebrated on 17 July 1834. A large number of brother Prelates and a vast number of priests attended. Bishop William Kinsella of Ossory, the bosom friend of J.K.L., delivered a magnificent oration. He spoke of how the deceased's first public writings were in defence of the faith he professed. The church, Kinsella said, was assailed by gross and unfounded calumnies, and he wrote to undeceive the credulous, to silence the calumniator, to clear away the base and foul charges brought against the religion he professed.

Nicholas Netterville proposed for See of Kildare

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1670

At the National Synod held in Dublin in June 1670 under Primate Oliver Plunkett, Father Nicholas Netterville, S.J., was proposed for the See of Kildare, praised for his learning and eloquence in preaching.

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At a National Synod held in Dublin, — a note of Propaganda describes it as held “ in Bridge street, in the house of Mr. Reynolds, at the foot of the Bridge,” — in June 1670, under the presidency of Primate Oliver Plunkett, a Petition to the Holy See was adopted, soliciting the appointment of Bishops to some of the vacant Sees, and proposing the names of those whom they deemed most worthy of the Episcopal dignity. Father Nicholas Netterville, S.J., styled by the Fathers as “ distinguished for his learning and eloquence in preaching the Word of God,” — vir doctrina et verbi Dei predicatione Celebris, — was proposed for the See of Kildare. Dr. Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin, thus writes of him : — “ Haec vero viri censura tan to apud me ponderis est, ut una sit ad instar omnium. Fuit enim is vir ob ingenii insigne acumen ac doctrinam, qua in Galliae Collegiis toto regno
BISHOPS OF KILDARE.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare town, you are travelling through the seat of a diocese that was without a bishop in 1670. That June, a National Synod met in Dublin, in Bridge Street, in the house of Mr. Reynolds, at the foot of the Bridge, under the presidency of Primate Oliver Plunkett. The Fathers adopted a petition to the Holy See asking for bishops to be appointed to several vacant sees, and among the names they put forward was Father Nicholas Netterville, a Jesuit. They styled him as distinguished for his learning and eloquence in preaching the Word of God. Dr. Talbot, Archbishop of Dublin, wrote of him that this judgement alone carried as much weight with him as all the rest together, calling him a man of remarkable sharpness of mind and learning acquired in the colleges of France.

No magistrate in the entire barony of Tinnehinch

Rosenallis · townland · Laois · 1766

Rev. Thomas Hackett reported in 1766 that despite covering the whole barony of Tinnahinch, with nearly 6,000 Catholic and under 2,000 Protestant inhabitants, there was not a single Justice of the Peace in the parish or barony.

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The obtaining the above survey being difficult and expensive, hath been the cause that this Return could not be compleat sooner ; and though this Parish contains the whole Barony of Tinnehinch and, I believe, more than three times the number of acres above set forth, (there being much mountain and Bog never surveyed in the Down Survey), yet there is not one Justice of Peace in the whole Parish or Barony, Quere , whether a militia quarterly array’d wou’d not be a
APPENDIX TO PART FIRST.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around Rosenallis, in 1766, the Reverend Thomas Hackett made a return on this parish. It contained, he wrote, the whole barony of Tinnehinch, with much mountain and bog never surveyed. Yet there was not one Justice of the Peace in the whole parish or barony. He asked whether a militia, quarterly arrayed, would not answer. The population ran to nearly 6,000 Catholic and under 2,000 Protestant inhabitants, and not one magistrate among them.

Ordination of James Doyle at Enniscorthy

Enniscorthy · townland · Wexford · 1809

James Doyle was ordained a priest at Enniscorthy on Rosary Sunday, 1st October 1809, with Dr. Ryan, Coadjutor to the Bishop of Ferns, officiating.

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James Doyle returned to Ireland in December, 1808, and shortly afterwards proceeded to the Convent of the Order at New Ross. His ordination as priest took place at Enniscorthy on Rosary Sunday, October 1st, 1809, Dr. Ryan, Coadjutor to the Bishop of Ferns, being the officiating Prelate. After his ordination he continued attached to the Community at Ross, engaged in the study of Theology, whilst, at the same time, he acted as Professor of Logic, and also took his part in the clerical duties attaching to his position.
In July 1813, Dr. Doyle first became connected with his future Diocese, by his appointment to a Professorship in Carlow College. His first chair was that of Rhetoric ; on the death of

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 91

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, James Doyle was ordained a priest on Rosary Sunday, the 1st of October, 1809. He had returned to Ireland in December of 1808 and gone to the Convent of the Order at New Ross. Dr. Ryan, Coadjutor to the Bishop of Ferns, was the officiating prelate at the ordination. After it, Doyle stayed with the community at Ross, studying theology while acting as Professor of Logic and taking his part in the clerical duties of his position. In July 1813, he was appointed to a professorship in Carlow College, his first chair being that of Rhetoric.

Presentation Convents established across the diocese under Dr. Haly

Muine Bheag (Bagenalstown) · town · Carlow · 1838–1854

During his seventeen-year episcopate, Dr. Haly established five Presentation Convents at Bagenalstown, Clane, Stradbally, Mountmellick, and Portarlington, chiefly devoted to the education of the poor.

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During Dr. Haly’s Episcopate, extending over a period of seventeen years, religion made great progress in the Diocese. Many fine Churches were erected, and Religious Communities established, especially those whose chief work is the education of the poor. Of the Presentation Order, five Convents were established by him : — Bagenalstown, in 1838 ; Clane, in April, 1839 ; Stradbally, in February, 1852 ; Mountmellick, in 1854; and Portarlington, also in 1854. A large wing, intended for the accommodation of Ecclesiastical Students preparing for the

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 140

As the companion tells it

Muine Bheag, or Bagenalstown, is a town the road passes through or near. In 1838, during Dr. Haly's seventeen years as bishop, a Presentation Convent was established here. It was one of five he founded across the diocese, the others following at Clane in April 1839, Stradbally in February 1852, and Mountmellick and Portarlington both in 1854. These communities were chiefly devoted to the education of the poor.

Priest Thomas Oge O'Hinnagan frequenting the Bahen in Clonmore parish

Clonmore · townland · Carlow · 1612

Sir Thomas Oge O'Hinnagan, a priest evading the Protestant authorities, was recorded frequenting the house of Garrat McKilpatrick in the Bahen, within the parish of Clonmore, according to Bishop Ram's 1612 report.

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9. Sir Thomas Oge O’Hinnagan, frequenting the house of Garrat McKilpatrick in the Bahen in the parish of Clonmore.
10. Sir Molrony McGrew, priest, keeping in the parish of Raville in no certain place that I can yet lerne, but as his occasions lead him.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 234

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in 1612, Bishop Ram's report noted a priest, Sir Thomas Oge O'Hinnagan, frequenting the house of Garrat McKilpatrick in the Bahen, within the parish of Clonmore. He was evading the Protestant authorities, and this house was where he was found.

Richard O'Reilly Appointed Parish Priest of Kilcock

Kilcock · town · Kildare · 1776

Richard O'Reilly, later Archbishop of Armagh, was born in 1746 in the Diocese of Kildare and appointed Parish Priest of Kilcock in 1776. He later became Vicar-General of Kildare and Leighlin before his consecration as Coadjutor Bishop.

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Reference has already been made in these pages to this distinguished Prelate. Living as he did so near our own time, it is strange how very little information is obtainable regarding him. His papers and correspondence have unfortunately disappeared. Dr. Fitzpatrick, in Life of Dr. Doyle (Yol. 2, p. 47, 2nd. Edn.), says: — “ They” (Dr. O’Reilly’s Papers) “ fell into the hands of an attorney whose literary taste and talent was confined to drawing up a tolerably grammatical bill of costs and making some occasional hand searches .” Dr. O’Reilly was born in 1746 ; he was a native of the Diocese of Kildare, and received his education at the Propaganda College, Rome. He was appointed Parish Priest of Kilcock in 1776, and subsequently Vicar-General of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. In 1781, he was Consecrated Coadjutor to Dr. Delany, and, in little more than a year later, was appointed Coadjutor to Dr. Blake, Archbishop of Armagh, to whom, on his death, in 1787, Dr. O’Reilly succeeded in the Primatial See. The early age at which he was made Bishop and the circumstances under which he was translated to Armagh, show that he must have been a man of more than ordinary piety, prudence, and ability. He had only attained the 36th year of his age when, in obedience to orders from the Holy See, he became Coadjutor of Armagh, of which Dr. Troy, then Bishop of Ossory, had been for a short time Administrator. The Diocese of Armagh, when Dr. O’Reilly became connected with it, seems to have been in a very disorganized condition. Dr. Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, in a letter to Dr. Plunkett of Meath, Jjfuly 4th, 1782, refers to the troubles in Armagh. — Cogan’s Diocese of Meath, Vol. 3, p. 71. And again, in the same year, Dr. Butler, writing to Dr. Plunkett, says : — “ Well, I hear you have got at last a Coadjutor to the Primate, and that he is my worthy friend, Dr. O’Reilly of Kilcock. He is certainly a young man of zeal and talents ; but zeal aud talents, I am afraid, will not suffice in a diocese so long divided by party spirit, disturbed by intestine broils and ecclesiastical intrigues, and if they do not, he will be much to be pitied. As I have, however, every reason to think that Dr. O’Reilly did not acquiesce to the charge but from obedience to the orders from Rome, I trust the Almighty God will support him in all the difficulties he must expect to meet with in the discharge of his duty. Dr. Troy set out the day before yesterday to introduct him. Whom will Dr. Keeffe now select to reinplace Dr. O’Reilly? Dr. Molloy, whom I saw lately, positively and peremptorily declines it.” — Cogan, ibid., p. 82. Dr. Molloy here referred to, was Parish Priest of Old St. Mary’s, Kilkenny, which, after his demise, was made the mensal parish, and the church which he built served as the Cathedral of Ossory until the present Cathedral structure supplanted it. Dr. Molloy died in 1789.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 262

As the companion tells it

As you come through Kilcock, this is the town where Richard O'Reilly was appointed parish priest in 1776. He was born in 1746, a native of the Diocese of Kildare, and educated at the Propaganda College in Rome. He was only 30 when he took up the parish here. He went on to become Vicar-General of Kildare and Leighlin, and in 1781 he was consecrated Coadjutor to Dr. Delany. Little more than a year later he was appointed Coadjutor to Dr. Blake, Archbishop of Armagh, and when Blake died in 1787, O'Reilly succeeded him in the Primatial See. He was only 36 when he went to Armagh, and he went in obedience to orders from Rome. The diocese he inherited was badly disorganized, divided by party spirit and ecclesiastical intrigue. Archbishop Butler of Cashel wrote of him at the time as "a young man of zeal and talents," but warned that zeal and talents alone might not suffice in so troubled a diocese. O'Reilly's own papers have disappeared, which is why, though he lived so near our own time, so little is known of him beyond the outline of his rise.

Vicar-Forane of Kilcock raises clergy concerns with Doyle

Kilcock · town · Kildare · 1819

The Very Rev. John Dunne, Parish Priest of Kilcock and Vicar-Forane, placed before Bishop Doyle the concerns of some clergy regarding his new regulations, prompting a detailed reply from the Bishop dated Christmas Day 1819.

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P.P. of Kilcock, and Vicar-Forane, placed before the Bishop the thoughts of some of the Clergy respecting these changes; replying to which Dr. Doyle thus writes, under date Christmas Day, 1819 : — “When I published these regulations I anticipated that their observance would be attended with some inconvenience to a few, for there is no change which does not produce inconvenience, nay I expected more, — that a few would feel discontented, and whisper their discontent to others ; but knowing the zeal and piety of the great body of the clergy, I hoped (and indeed my hopes have not been disappointed) that they would carefully conform to the regulations which are only transcripts of the Gospel or of the laws of the Church. I studiously avoided every innovation, and omitted things which 1 wished to insert, lest our circumstances were not fitted for what otherwise
would be desirable Nothing is prohibited but what

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 93

As the companion tells it

Coming up near Kilcock now. In 1819 the Very Reverend John Dunne, parish priest here and Vicar-Forane, brought to Bishop Doyle the concerns some clergy had about his new regulations. Doyle replied on Christmas Day that year, saying he had anticipated inconvenience and even some discontent, but that he hoped the clergy would conform, as the regulations were, in his words,

Ballynure Parish Reports No Mass Said in Living Memory

Ballynure · townland · Monaghan · 1766

The 1766 return for Ballynure states that no priest or friar resided in the parish and that Mass had not been said there within living memory, a notable claim among the Kildare returns.

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Bally nure. No Priest or Fryar resides in this Parish, nor has Mass been said in the memory of men now living in it.
Coolbanagher and Ardea. April, 1766. John Whelan, Popish Priest, — Lawler, Coadjutor.

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As the companion tells it

Close to Ballynure, the 1766 return noted that no priest or friar resided in this parish, and that Mass had not been said there in the memory of men then living. The entry was signed at Coolbanagher and Ardea in April 1766 by John Whelan, described as Popish Priest, and Lawler, Coadjutor.

Bishop Donatus rebuilds Leighlin Cathedral after destruction by fire

Oldleighlin · parish · Carlow

Bishop Donatus of Leighlin rebuilt the Cathedral after it had been destroyed by fire, restoring the seat of the diocese.

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Donatus, Bishop of Leighlin, rebuilds Cathedral destroyed by fire, . . „
John, Abbot of Monasterevan, appointed Bishop of Leighlin, appointment opposed by Deputy Hano de Valoniis who seizes temporalities of See, John proceeds to Borne, consecrated by Pope Innocent III., Hano compelled to restore temporalities, . . .47

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 317

As the companion tells it

This parish is Oldleighlin, in Carlow. The cathedral here was destroyed by fire, and Donatus, Bishop of Leighlin, rebuilt it, restoring the seat of the diocese.

Bishop Harlewin buried at Dunbrody Abbey

Dunbrody · townland · Wexford · 1216–1217

Bishop Harlewin of Leighlin died in 1216 or 1217 and was interred in the Conventual Church of Dunbrody, county Wexford, a great portion of which he had caused to be built.

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A.D. 1201. Harlewin succeeded. He, also, was a Cistercian monk, and, from his name, we may suppose him to have been a Norman. He bestowed Burgages, or dwelling-houses, on the Burgesses of Leighlin accompanied by a grant of the franchises of Bristol, on the rules of which Corporation many in Ireland were modelled, reserving to his See a yearly grant of twelve pence out of each Burgage. This was the first Charter of Leighlin. The Liberties extended about a mile and a half round the town, and were defined by large stones inscribed : — Terminus Burgens. Leighlinen. hie lapis est. (Ledwich.) Bishop Harlewin died in 1216 or, according to some, in 1217,* and was interred in the Conventual Church of Dunbrody, county of Wexford, a great portion of which he had caused to be erected. ( Ware.)
a.d. 1217. Richard Fleming, by some called Robert, was consecrated to this See. He had a prolonged dispute with the Prior of Conall, County of Kildare, about some lands and tithes belonging to his Bishopric, in Leix. The suit terminated in a compromise by which the Bishop resigned the lands and tithes to the Prior, receiving instead, an annual pension of twelve marks,

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 48

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here at Dunbrody, a bishop was laid to rest. His name was Harlewin, bishop of Leighlin. He succeeded in the year 1201 and was a Cistercian monk, likely a Norman by his name. He gave Burgages, or dwelling-houses, to the Burgesses of Leighlin, along with the franchises of Bristol, on the rules of which many corporations in Ireland were modelled. He reserved for his See a yearly grant of twelve pence from each Burgage. This was the first Charter of Leighlin. The liberties extended about a mile and a half round the town, marked by large stones inscribed with the words "Terminus Burgens. Leighlinen. hie lapis est." Bishop Harlewin died in 1216, or by some accounts in 1217, and was buried in the Conventual Church of Dunbrody in county Wexford. He had caused a great portion of that church to be erected. That is why he was brought here.

Bishop O'Gorman dies and is buried at Killeigh

Killeigh · town · Offaly · 1160

Finn Mac Gormian, Bishop of Kildare, died at Killeigh in 1160 and was buried there, after having earlier served as abbot of the monastery of Newry, Co. Down (also called Greenwood).

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“ a.d. 1160. Finn Mac Gormian, Bishop of Cill-dara, and who had been abbot of the monks of Inbhair-chinn-trachta, for a time, died.” (Four Masters.) “ Finn (mac Tiarcain) O’Gorman, abbot of the monastery of Greenwood, succeeded, and died at Killeigh, in 1160, and was there buried.” (Ware.) The monastery of which this Prelate had been abbot previous to his appointment to the See of Kildare, was that of Newry, Co. Down. It was called by the several names of Monasterium Nevorense, Dubhar-chinn, Triagh, and Monasterium de viride Ligno (Greenwood), and, in Irish, it was called Na- Juar. (Archdall. Monast. Hib.) This Bishop was amongst those who assisted at the Synod of Kells, or Mellifont, in 1152, as appears from the list quoted by Keating from the Annals of Clonenagh, no longer extant. ( Lanigan, Vol.^p. 140.) Bishop O’Gorman was the
12

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 13

As the companion tells it

Killeigh is where a bishop's story ended in 1160. Finn Mac Gormian, also called Finn O'Gorman, was Bishop of Kildare. Before he took that office, he had been abbot of the monastery of Newry in County Down, a place known by many names: Greenwood, Dubhar-chinn, and in Irish, Na-Juar. In 1152 he was among the bishops who attended the Synod of Kells, or Mellifont. He died at Killeigh in 1160 and was buried there. The Annals of the Four Masters record his death. Ware records that he had been abbot of Greenwood before succeeding to the see of Kildare. Keating, drawing on the Annals of Clonenagh, no longer extant, includes him in the list of those present at that synod. So the road passes near the town where Bishop O'Gorman was laid to rest.

Cahill educated at Ferris's Academy, Athy

Athy · town · Kildare · 1796–1816

Daniel William Cahill received his rudimentary education at Ferris's Academy in Athy before being appointed to Maynooth College in 1816.

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Dr. Cahill, who was one of the most conspicuous and popular ecclesiastics of his time, was born at Ashfield, in the parish of Arless, Queen’s County, November 28th, 1796. He was the third son of Daniel Cahill, C.E., and Catherine Brett. He received his rudimentary education at Ferris’s Academy, Athy. In 1816, he was appointed to a place in Maynooth College by Bishop Corcoran, to whom he was related. On the completion of his studies, he received Ordination at the hands of the Bight Bev. Dr. Doyle, and was immediately appointed to the Curacy of Leighlin-Bridge. In 1825 Dr. Cahill came to Carlow College as Professor of Natural Philosophy, which position he continued to occupy until the close of the year 1834. In 1834 he established a school at Carlow ; in 1835 he opened a hoardingschool at Seapoint, Williamstown, County Dublin ; which, in 1840, he transferred to Prospect, Blackrock. About 1850 we find him at Esker, from which time he resided in the vicinity of Dublin until the year 1859 ; during this period he was constantly engaged, not only in various parts of this country, but also in the chief towns in England and Scotland, preaching charity sermons, and delivering lectures, especially on Astronomy and other philososphical subjects, — his presence in pulpit or on platform being ever sure to bring together an overflowing and enthusiastic audience. He was also, for a short time, Editor of The Advocate , a Journal that had but a brief career. In 1859, Dr. Cahill carried into effect a resolution he had formed long before, of visiting America. He visited many parts of the United States and British America, constantly engaged in preaching and lecturing, being received everywhere, especially by his own countrymen, with enthusiasm. Feeling his health failing in 1864, he determined to return to his native country, but Providence ordered it otherwise. After a protracted and painful illness, which he sanctified by the exercise of Christian patience and resignation to the Divine Will, he breathed his last in the city of Boston, on the 28th of October, 1864, in the 68th year of his age. Several of his Sermons, Lectures, etc., have been published in a collected form, making up two portly octavo volumes.* When intelligence of his demise reached Ireland, a Solemn Bequiem Office for the repose of his soul, took place in Carlow Cathedral, at which the Bishop, the Bight Bev. Dr. Walshe, and a very large number of the clergy of the

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 194

As the companion tells it

Daniel William Cahill received his rudimentary education at Ferris's Academy in the town of Athy. He was born at Ashfield, in the parish of Arless, Queen's County, on November 28th, 1796, the third son of Daniel Cahill and Catherine Brett. Ferris's Academy was the beginning of his schooling. In 1816, he was appointed to a place in Maynooth College by Bishop Corcoran, to whom he was related. After completing his studies there, he received Ordination at the hands of the Right Rev. Dr. Doyle and was immediately appointed to the Curacy of Leighlin-Bridge. In 1825, Cahill came to Carlow College as Professor of Natural Philosophy, a position he held until the close of 1834. He established a school at Carlow in 1834, and in 1835 opened a boarding school at Seapoint, Williamstown, County Dublin, which he transferred to Prospect, Blackrock in 1840. Around 1850 he was at Esker, and from that time resided in the vicinity of Dublin until 1859. During this period he was constantly engaged in preaching charity sermons and delivering lectures, especially on Astronomy and other philosophical subjects, his presence in pulpit or on platform always bringing together an overflowing and enthusiastic audience. He was also, for a short time, Editor of The Advocate, a journal that had but a brief career. In 1859, Cahill carried into effect a resolution he had formed long before, of visiting America. He visited many parts of the United States and British America, constantly engaged in preaching and lecturing, received everywhere with enthusiasm. Feeling his health failing in 1864, he determined to return to his native country, but died in Boston on October 28th, 1864, in the 68th year of his age.

Cut-stone arch from parish church moved to Convent of Mercy, Carlow

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1792

A fine cut-stone arch, originally the entrance to the parish church erected by Dean Staunton in 1792 and bearing his initials and the date, was later relocated to the Convent of Mercy in Carlow.

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The fine cut-stone arch, now at the Convent of Mercy, Carlow, was previously the entrance to the parish Church, and was erected by Dean Staunton, as his initials and the date : — “ H. S. a.d. 1792” — testify.
Dean Staunton died on the 1st of September, 1814, and was interred at the Parish Church ; when the new Cathedral was commenced, his remains and those of his successor in the Pastoral office, the Very Rev. William FitzGerald, V.F., were removed to the Cemetery of the College. On the 29th of September, 1814, the Month’s Memory for the repose of the

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 164

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here stands a cut-stone arch, now at the Convent of Mercy. It was once the entrance to the parish church, erected by Dean Staunton. His initials and the date are cut into the stone:

Death and Burial of Father Hamilton at Tarbert

Tarbert · town · Kerry · 1873

Father Hamilton died at the home of his brother, Dr. W. Hamilton of Tarbert, on 20 December 1873, the 36th anniversary of his ordination, in his 60th year. His remains were interred in the Parish Church at Tarbert.

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his precarious state of health, expressed their deepest sympathy, and immediately gave him leave for six months, allowing him to retain full pay, and if, at the expiration of that time, he should be invalided, securing to him an ample pension for life. He came to the home of his brother, Dr. W. Hamilton of Tarbeit, where all that a brother’s and sister’s loving-kindness could do to assuage the sufferings of an incurable malady was done. He expired on the 20th of December, the 36th anniversary of his Ordination, 1873, in the 60th year of his age. His remains were interred in the Parish Church at Tarbert. On Wednesday, the 21st of January following, a solemn Month’s Memory Office and Requiem Mass for the repose of his soul took place in the Cathedral, Carlow, at which his former fellow-professor and lifelong friend, the Right Rev. Dr. Walshe, presided, assisted by a numerous attendance of the clergy of his adopted Diocese, and also from that of Dublin. Amongst those present were the Very Rev. J. J. Taylor, D.D., Y.F., Very Rev. Archdeacon Dunne, V.F., Very Rev. P. Morrin, V.F., Very Rev. D. Kane, D.D., Very Rev. J. B. Kavanagh, D.D., Very Rev. Canon Pope (cousin to the deceased), etc., etc.
As a writer, Father Hamilton commanded great felicity of expression and elegance of style ; he was an eloquent and effective lecturer and pulpit orator, and in classics, and more especially in the knowledge of the Natural Sciences, had few compeers. A good Religious with whom Father Hamilton maintained a correspondence, has kindly supplied notes which she fortunately made from his writings. From these notes some extracts are here given ; they will serve as illustrations of his style and spirit: —

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 213

As the companion tells it

Up ahead is Tarbert, the town where Father Hamilton spent his last days. He had been in poor health, and those who knew his condition gave him six months' leave with full pay and the promise of a pension for life. He came to the home of his brother, Dr. W. Hamilton of Tarbert, where his brother and sister did all they could to ease the suffering of an illness that would not be cured. He died on the 20th of December 1873, the 36th anniversary of his ordination, in his 60th year. His remains were laid to rest in the Parish Church at Tarbert. A solemn Month's Memory Office and Requiem Mass followed on the 21st of January in the Cathedral at Carlow, where his lifelong friend Dr. Walshe presided over a large gathering of clergy from his adopted diocese and from Dublin. Father Hamilton was remembered as a writer of great elegance, an eloquent preacher, and a man few could match in classics and the Natural Sciences.

Death and funeral of Bishop O'Keeffe at Kildare

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1787

Dr Keeffe died on Tuesday 18th September 1787, aged 85, and was interred at Kildare. Numerous bishops including the Archbishops of Dublin and Cashel assisted at his funeral office, as recorded in Bishop Plunkett's Visitation Journal.

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Dr. Keeffe died on Tuesday the 18th of September, 1787 ; in the Diocesan Visitation Journal of Dr. Patrick Joseph Plunkett, Bishop of Meath, the following entry appears : — “ 19th of Septr., 1787, I set out from Kilkenny to Carlow, where, on the 20th, in company with Dr. Troy, Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, Dr. Egan, Bishop of Waterford, Dr. Moylan, Bishop of Cork, Dr. Caulfield, Bishop of Ferns, Dr. Delany, Bishop of Kildare, Dr. Teahan, Bishop of Kerry, and Dr. Dunne, Bishop of Ossory, — consecrated the previous Thursday, — I assisted at the funeral office and interment of Dr. Keeffe of Kildare, who died on Tuesday, the 18th, at the age of 85, a model of disinterestedness and piety.” ( Coqan’s Meath, Vol 2, p. 200.)
The following is a copy of the inscription on the tomb placed by Dr. Doyle over the grave of Dr. Keeffe : —

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 85

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare, this is where Dr. Keeffe was laid to rest. He died on Tuesday the 18th of September 1787, at the age of 85. Bishop Plunkett of Meath recorded in his visitation journal that on the 20th of September, in company with Dr. Troy, Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Butler, Archbishop of Cashel, and bishops of Waterford, Cork, Ferns, Kildare, Kerry, and Ossory, he assisted at the funeral office and interment. Plunkett called Keeffe "a model of disinterestedness and piety."

Dr. Denis Kane builds Convent and beautifies Church in Baltinglass

Baltinglass · town · Wicklow · 1871–1883

Dr. Denis Kane served as Parish Priest of Baltinglass for thirteen years, during which he made the Parish Church an attraction to the faithful and built a Convent for the Sisters of the Presentation whom he introduced about ten years before his death. He carried out these works without making any financial demand on his parishioners.

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Whilst this work was passing through the Press, Dr. Kane, whose interest in its compilation was manifested by the very effective aid he rendered in the collection of materials for it, has been summoned to his eternal reward. The melancholy intelligence was received with sincerest grief, especially by those to whom his friendship was one of the dearest treasures of their lives. There never was a truer, more faithful friend, never a man more single-minded and unselfish. He was a model of ecclesiastical virtue. Entirely devoted to the spiritual interests of his people, he lived within the sanctuary, and shrank from the demonstration of esteem and regard which the beauty and nobleness of his character could not fail to win. Everywhere he laboured he has left behind him monuments of his disinterestedness and zeal. In Baltinglass, of which he was Parish Priest for thirteen years, he has made the Parish Church a very attraction to the faithful. The Convent, which he built for the Sisters of the Presentation whom he introduced some ten years since, is in itself an abiding monument of his judgment and taste. This and every other work and improvement that he effected in the parish were carried out without making a single demand on his people. He could say with the Apostle, ‘ I seek not yours but you and we confidently believe that he never received a shilling that he had not already devoted to some purpose of charity or religion.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 313

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Baltinglass in Wicklow. For thirteen years, Dr. Denis Kane served here as Parish Priest, and in that time he made the Parish Church what people called a very attraction to the faithful. He also built the Convent for the Sisters of the Presentation, a community he brought in about ten years before his death. Every one of these works he carried out without making a single financial demand on his people. The book that records this says of him that he never received a shilling he had not already devoted to some purpose of charity or religion, and quotes him saying, I seek not yours but you.

Dr. Kyran Marum's career from Carlow College to Bishop of Ossory

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1810–1827

Kyran Marum, born at Rathpatrick, Galmoy, taught Philosophy and Theology at Carlow College before being appointed to St. John's Parish, Kilkenny, and eventually became Bishop of Ossory, dying at Kilkenny in 1827.

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election at Rome did not take place till after the liberation of Pope Pius VII., in November, 1814. Dr. Marum died at Kilkenny on the 22nd December, 1827, at the early age of 55. {Paper on “ Catholic Schools of Kilkenny .”)
September 1803, “ the Rev. John Barrett, Professor of Humanity.” — This Professor’s name appears in the College books for the succeeding three years. He was held in high esteem by the President, Dr. FitzGerald, for his great knowledge of the classics, and his skill in the composition of Latin Poetry.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 168

As the companion tells it

Kilkenny was where Dr. Kyran Marum's life ended. Born at Rathpatrick in Galmoy, he taught Philosophy and Theology at Carlow College before his appointment to St. John's Parish in this city. He became Bishop of Ossory. An election at Rome concerning his appointment did not take place till after the liberation of Pope Pius VII in November 1814. Dr. Marum died at Kilkenny on the 22nd of December, 1827, at the age of 55.

Father Therry's early ministry at Cork's Church of SS. Peter and Paul

Cork · city · Cork · 1815–1817

Ordained in April 1815, Father Therry's first mission was in his native city of Cork, where he was attached to the Church of SS. Peter and Paul for two years before being transferred to the Cathedral.

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“ John Therry of Cork,” appears on the Roll of Students in 1812. The Very Rev. John Joseph Therry, the Venerable Archpriest and Apostle of Australia, was born at Cork in the year 1791. He had the inestimable advantage of being born of enlightened and exemplary Christian parents who trained him to virtue and piety from his childhood. In 1812, he entered Carlow College to prepare himself for the priesthood, where he made his course of ecclesiastical studies, having for his Professor of Theology, Dr. Doyle, afterwards the illustrious Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. During his collegiate career he secured the affectionate regards of his superiors and formed many friendships which lasted for life. He was a class-fellow of the present Patriarchal Parish Priest of Abbeyleix, the Rev. Thomas Nolan, who describes Father Therry as smart and intelligent, but of retiring habits. Even at this early period his mind was strongly directed to that species of labour to which he afterwards devoted his life. He organized, we are told, an Association of young ecclesiastics to engage to recite certain prayers, daily, for the spread of the light of the Gospel amongst those who were seated in darkness. Those young men also offered their lives to God for His service in foreign countries if it should please Him, by any special sign, to manifest an acceptance of that oblation. Father Therry was ordained priest in April, 1815, by the Most Rev. Dr. Troy, Archbishop of Dublin. His first mission was in Cork, the city of his birth. He was attached to the Church of SS. Peter and Paul, where he remained two years. He was then transferred to the Cathedral, where he ministered for three years. During this time he resided with the Bishop, the Right Rev. Dr. Murphy, to whom he was strongly attached, and who loved him with a paternal affection. But in the midst of this happy and useful life in his native city, his mind still retained its early bent ; he awaited only the call to a more extended and arduous field of missionary labour. A circumstance occurred at this time that directed his attention to Australia. "Walking one day in the streets of Cork, a waggon passed him containing a number of his countrymen hand-cuffed, and guarded by a military escort. On inquiry, he found that they were convicts being conveyed to the hulk, about to sail for Botany Bay. He at once went into an adjoining book-seller’s

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 175

As the companion tells it

Cork is the birthplace of Father John Therry, born here in 1791. He was ordained priest in April 1815 by Archbishop Troy of Dublin, and his first mission was in this city, attached to the Church of SS. Peter and Paul, where he served for two years before moving to the Cathedral for a further three. He lived with Bishop Dr. Murphy, who held him in paternal affection. But even in this happy work his mind was set on missionary labour abroad. The story goes that walking in the streets of Cork one day, he saw a waggon pass carrying a number of his countrymen, handcuffed and guarded by a military escort. On inquiry he learned they were convicts being conveyed to a hulk, about to sail for Botany Bay. He went straight into an adjoining book-seller's shop. That moment turned his attention to Australia, where he would later become known as the Apostle of Australia. His classmate at Carlow College, the Reverend Thomas Nolan, described him as smart and intelligent, but of retiring habits. Even as a student he had organized an association of young ecclesiastics who recited daily prayers for the spread of the Gospel among those seated in darkness, and offered their lives for foreign mission if God should accept their offering.

Francis Haly consecrated Bishop in Carlow Cathedral

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1838

On 25 March 1838, Francis Haly was consecrated Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin in the Cathedral at Carlow by Archbishop Murray, assisted by the Bishops of Ossory and Ferns.

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On the death of Dr. Nolan, in October, 1837, Francis Haly was elected his successor ; his election was ratified by the Holy See, his Brief was expedited on the 10th of February, and on the 25th of March, 1838, he was consecrated in the Cathedral, Carlow, by the Most Rev. Archbishop Murray, assisted by the Right Rev. W. Kinsella, Bishop of Ossory, and the Right Rev. J. Keating, Bishop of Ferns.
During Dr. Haly’s Episcopate, extending over a period of seventeen years, religion made great progress in the Diocese. Many fine Churches were erected, and Religious Communities established, especially those whose chief work is the education of the poor. Of the Presentation Order, five Convents were established by him : — Bagenalstown, in 1838 ; Clane, in April, 1839 ; Stradbally, in February, 1852 ; Mountmellick, in 1854; and Portarlington, also in 1854. A large wing, intended for the accommodation of Ecclesiastical Students preparing for the

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 140

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, in the Cathedral at Carlow, Francis Haly was consecrated Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin on 25 March 1838. He had been elected successor to Dr. Nolan, who died in October 1837. His election was ratified by the Holy See, and his Brief was expedited on 10 February. Archbishop Murray performed the consecration, assisted by Bishop W. Kinsella of Ossory and Bishop J. Keating of Ferns. During Dr. Haly's episcopate, extending over seventeen years, religion made great progress in the diocese. Many fine churches were erected and religious communities established, especially those whose chief work was the education of the poor. Of the Presentation Order, he established five convents: Bagenalstown in 1838, Clane in April 1839, Stradbally in February 1852, Mountmellick in 1854, and Portarlington also in 1854.

Mr. Burgh of Old Town's donation to Naas parish

Naas · town · Kildare · 1800

Mr. Burgh of Old Town granted a perpetual donation of a house and ground, with the chapel rent-free worth £30 per annum, to the parish priest of Naas and his successors, and contributed generously to building the chapel.

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In the estimate of the parish of Naas is included a perpetual donation of Mr. Burgh of Old Town, to the present incumbent and his successors, of a house and spot of ground, with the chapel rentfree, to the value of <£30 per annum. This gentleman has also not only contributed himself amply to the building of the chapel, but also very capitally, by his influence and exertions in its favour.
In the income of Myshall, too, in the County of Carlow, is comprised a grant of ground to the Parish Priest, jointly, from Mr. Cornwall and Mr. Bagot, the landlords, to the amount of £30 per annum ; the chapel, rent-free, owes principally its existence to the former gentleman’s bounty and liberal exertions in its behalf. Not so, may I be permitted to remark, in the Bishop’s parish of Tullow, in the same County, where a ground rent of £10 4s. 6d. is paid for the town chapel, actually, for the greater part, reduced almost to a heap of ruin, without our being able to obtain, hitherto, a lease to rebuild the same.*

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 273

As the companion tells it

The town of Naas in Kildare holds a story of generosity from around 1800. Mr. Burgh of Old Town made a perpetual donation to the parish priest of Naas and his successors. He granted a house and a spot of ground, with the chapel rent-free, to the value of £30 per annum. He also contributed amply to the building of the chapel himself, and lent what the record calls his influence and exertions very capitally in its favour. The donation was perpetual, meant for the present incumbent and those who would follow him. The chapel stood on ground given without rent, and the house beside it belonged to the parish priest by the same grant. All of this appeared in an account of the parish of Naas, recorded in a collection relating to the dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin.

Nicholas Maguire native of Tullamaguina, prebendary of Ullard

Ullard · townland · Kilkenny · 1490–1512

Bishop Nicholas Maguire was born at Tullamaguina in Idrone, and after his education at Oxford returned home to be made Prebendary of Ullard in the Diocese of Leighlin, where he was highly esteemed for his preaching.

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a.d. 1490. Nicholas Maguire was appointed Bishop of Leighlin, on the 21st of April. “ Die 21 0 Aprilis, 1490, referente Card. Andegaven,, S.D.N. providit de persona Dni. Nicholai, Ecclesiae Leglinen., in provincia Dublinen., in Hibernia, per obitum Dni. Milonis, illius ultimi Episcopi, extra Romanam Curiam defuncti, vacanti.” ( Vatican Archives.) Dr. Maguire was a native of Tullamaguina in Idrone, {Dowlings Annals.) He received his education at Oxford, and, returning home, was made Prebendary of Ullard, in the Diocese of Leighlin. He was highly esteemed for his learning and diligence in preaching. When appointed Bishop he had not quite reached the age of 31 years. Ware remarks that he began many works, but death
BISHOPS OF LEIGHLIN.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come

As the companion tells it

Somewhere around here, Nicholas Maguire once served as Prebendary of Ullard. He was a native of Tullamaguina in Idrone, and after his education at Oxford he returned home to take up this post in the Diocese of Leighlin. He was highly esteemed for his learning and diligence in preaching. On 21 April 1490, he was appointed Bishop of Leighlin, succeeding the last bishop, Milo, who had died outside the Roman Curia. When appointed, he had not quite reached the age of 31 years. Ware remarks that he began many works, but death cut them short.

Patrick Dempsy appointed Vicar-Apostolic of Kildare

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1671–1676

Propaganda selected Patrick Dempsy to be Vicar-Apostolic of Kildare in May 1671, and the Pope ratified this on 26th of the same month. He was noted as of the illustrious Clanmaleire family and had been Rector of the Irish College at Lille.

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On the 12th of May, 1671, Propaganda selected Patrick Dempsy to be Yicar- Apostolic of Kildare, and the Pope ratified this appointment on the 26th of the same month. He was highly recommended by the Bishop of Ferns, as prudent, of blameless life and sound judgment, of an illustrious family (that of Clanmaleire), and a Doctor in Moral Theology and Laws. Dr. Dempsy had been for seven years Rector of the Irish College at Lille. In 1668, it had been proposed to make him Bishop of Kildare, his native Diocese ; he was on that occasion described as held in much esteem by the Catholics of Kildare, and as exemplary and prudent. ( Propaganda Papers, apud Brady.) He appears to have administered the Diocese until the appointment of Dr. Forstall to the See, in 1676.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 39

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare, this is the town whose Catholics held Patrick Dempsy in much esteem back in 1668, when he was first proposed as Bishop of his native diocese. He came from the Clanmaleire family, was a Doctor in Moral Theology and Laws, and had spent seven years as Rector of the Irish College at Lille. The Bishop of Ferns recommended him as prudent, of blameless life and sound judgment. On the 12th of May 1671, Propaganda selected him to be Vicar-Apostolic of Kildare, and the Pope ratified that appointment on the 26th of the same month. He administered the diocese until Dr. Forstall was appointed to the See in 1676.

Rev. John B. Taylor dies of fever caught in Dublin cathedral duties

Marlborough Street · street · Dublin

Rev. John B. Taylor, a professor at Carlow College who later became a priest attached to the Cathedral at Marlborough Street, Dublin, died young of fever contracted while performing his clerical duties there.

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which time his brother, the Rev. J ohn B. Taylor, was a Professor in that institution. This latter, who had made his studies with distinction at Paris, continued at Carlow for some years, and, on leaving it, became one of the priests attached to the Cathedral, Marlborough Street, Dublin. He died young, of fever caught in the discharge of his clerical duties. On the completion of his studies at Carlow, Dr. Taylor was ordained priest on the 28th of May, 1831. He was at once appointed Bursar of the College, and, on the Consecration of Dr. Nolan in 1831, succeeded to the Vice-Presidency. Later on, he acted as Professor of Sacred Scripture, and in 1841, the College having been shortly before incorporated with the University of London, he graduated as Bachelor of Arts. On the death of the President, Dr. FitzGerald, in 1843, Dr. Taylor succeeded to that office. In 1847 he paid a visit to the Eternal City, having had the Degree of Doctor in Theology conferred on him shortly before. In 1848 he was elected a Member of the Royal Irish Academy. In July, 1850, Dr. Taylor joined the Fathers of St. Vincent de Paul, and took part in several of the Missions conducted by that body. Subsequently he became Secretary to the Archbishopof Dublin ; in January, 1853, he was appointed Secretary to the Catholic University ; and in June of the same year he acted as Secretary to the Synod of the Province of Dublin in conjunction with Dr. Woodlock. In 1854, Dr. Taylor received the appointment of Parish Priest of Rathvilly, and, on the death of the Very Rev. N. O’Connor, P.P. of Maryborough, the following year, was translated to that Parish, being also at the same time advanced to the dignity of Vicar-Forane and Master of Conference. He died on the 5 th of February, 1875, in the 69th year of his age.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 220

As the companion tells it

The Reverend John B. Taylor was one of the priests attached to the Cathedral on Marlborough Street, Dublin. He had made his studies with distinction at Paris, and before coming to the Cathedral he had been a professor at Carlow College, where his brother also taught. He continued at Carlow for some years before leaving for Dublin. He died young, of fever caught in the discharge of his clerical duties. His brother, Dr. Taylor, followed a long career at Carlow. Ordained priest on the 28th of May, 1831, he was appointed Bursar of the College at once, and on the consecration of Dr. Nolan in 1831 succeeded to the Vice-Presidency. He acted as Professor of Sacred Scripture, and in 1841, the College having been incorporated shortly before with the University of London, he graduated as Bachelor of Arts. On the death of the President, Dr. FitzGerald, in 1843, Dr. Taylor succeeded to that office. In 1847 he visited Rome, having had the degree of Doctor in Theology conferred on him shortly before. In 1848 he was elected a Member of the Royal Irish Academy. In July, 1850, he joined the Fathers of St. Vincent de Paul and took part in several of their Missions. He became Secretary to the Archbishop of Dublin, and in January, 1853, was appointed Secretary to the Catholic University. In June of that year he acted as Secretary to the Synod of the Province of Dublin with Dr. Woodlock. In 1854 he became Parish Priest of Rathvilly, and the following year, on the death of the Very Reverend N. O'Connor, Parish Priest of Maryborough, he was translated to that parish, also advanced to Vicar-Forane and Master of Conference. He died on the 5th of February, 1875, in the 69th year of his age.

St Bridget honoured as special patron of Kildare town and Cathedral

Kildare · town · Kildare

The Synod decreed that the Feast of St. Bridget, general patron of the whole Kingdom, was to be observed with special solemnity as the rite of Patron in the town of Kildare, reflecting her particular association with the town and its Cathedral.

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The Synod decreed that the Feast of St. Patrick should be observed in the city of Dublin as that of Patron, and throughout the rest of the Province as a double of first class; that the Feast of St. Bridget, general patron of the whole Kingdom and special one of the town and Cathedral of Kildare, be observed according to the rite of Patron, in that town ; through the rest of the Diocese of Kildare, as a double of first class, and through the rest of the Province, as double of 2nd class ; that the Feast of St. Columbkille, third General Patron of the Kingdom, be observed throughout the Province as a double of 2nd class ; that the Feast of St. Laurence, Archbishop of Dublin, be observed throughout the Province as double of 2nd class ; that the Feast of the Dedication of a Church be celebrated on the Sunday following the feast of St. Bemigius, 1st October, or on that feast itself should it fall on Sunday, with the customary Octave.
Observance of fasting and abstinence. — From the time of St. Patrick, the Irish were remarkable for the observance of rigorous fasts and acts of mortification. It had been the custom to abstain from flesh meat on all Wednesdays; and on Fridays, — and, in some places, also on Saturdays — to abstain, not only from flesh meat, but even from eggs and whitemeats. The unhappy condition of the country rendering the continuance of these austere observances difficult, if not impossible, Pope Clement VIII., in response to an application from the Irish Prelates, issued a Bull, on the 13th of March, 1598, granting power to the Bishops and their Delegates throughout the Kingdom, to commute these fasts and abstinences into other pious works. Finding that no uniform mode had been observed in exercising these delegated powers, and that doubts and scruples had, in consequence, arisen, to settle the question for the future, the folio wing general rule was decided upon : — The Archbishop of Dublin received the afore-

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 241

As the companion tells it

Coming up through Kildare town. A Synod decreed that the Feast of St. Bridget was to be observed here with the rite of Patron. She was the general patron of the whole Kingdom, but Kildare held a special claim on her, for she was also the special patron of this town and its Cathedral. Elsewhere in the diocese the feast ranked as a double of first class, and in the rest of the province as a double of second class, but in Kildare itself it carried the full solemnity of Patron.

Appointed President of Diocesan College of St. Mary, Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1812

In 1812, Mr. England was appointed President of the Diocesan College of St. Mary, opened by Dr. Moylan for the education of candidates for Holy Orders, where he taught the theological course.

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“ On his arrival from Carlo w,. the present Magdalen Asylum, built at the expense of Mr. Therry, was in progress of erection. To this he immediately turned his attention and, up to the time of its opening in June 1809, he assembled six of the unfortunate beings who were to be its future inmates, whom, with the assistance of his friends, he supported, till the house should be opened for their reception, placing them under the care of the person who was afterwards matron of that institution. Another of his labours at the time was the publication of a monthly periodical, The Religious Repertory , which he originated in May of the same year, with a view to diffuse a spirit of piety amongst the people, and to withdraw them from the perusal of books of a dangerous or immoral tendency. He likewise established a circulating Library in the parish of St. Mary’s, Shandon. He next turned his attention to the city jail, and, Government not then allowing a salary for the Roman Catholic Chaplain, gave his services gratuitously for no inconsiderable time. In 1812 he was appointed President of the Diocesan College of St. Mary, opened by Dr. Moylan for the education of Candidates for Holy Orders, and taught in it the Theological course.
“In the commencement of 1814, Mr. England was providentially preserved under the following circumstances : — Having left Cork for Dublin on business of a spiritual nature, a heavy fall of snow, which came on during the night, prevented the Mail Coach, in which he travelled, from proceeding beyond Carlow. Mr. England’s business was urgent and, having no better mode of proceeding, he resolved, with some others, to walk the remaining part of the journey. The snow had fallen to such a depth as to cover altogether the huts on the roadside, and he at one time narrowly escaped fracturing his leg by thrusting it through the chimney of a cottage. After proceeding some distance, and feeling fatigued, he drank of the snow water to refresh himself. This produced

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 170

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, you are moving through streets where a man named Mr. England did a great deal of work. In 1812 he was appointed President of the Diocesan College of St. Mary, which Dr. Moylan had opened for the education of candidates for Holy Orders, and there he taught the theological course. Before that, he had been busy in the city in other ways. The Magdalen Asylum, built at the expense of Mr. Therry, was going up when he arrived, and he gathered six women who were to be its future inmates, supporting them with the help of friends until the house opened in June 1809. That same May he began a monthly periodical called The Religious Repertory, aimed at spreading a spirit of piety and drawing people away from books of a dangerous or immoral tendency. He also established a circulating library in the parish of St. Mary's, Shandon. He turned his attention to the city jail as well, and since the government would not then pay a salary for the Roman Catholic chaplain, he gave his services there for free. In early 1814, having left Cork for Dublin on spiritual business, he was caught in a heavy fall of snow. The mail coach could not get beyond Carlow, so he and others set out to walk the rest of the way. The snow was deep enough to bury roadside huts, and he narrowly escaped fracturing his leg by thrusting it through a chimney of a cottage.

1766 Religious Census Returns for Kildare Parishes

Great Connell · street · Kildare · 1766

Government census returns for numerous Kildare parishes recorded numbers of Protestant and Catholic ('Popish') families, along with resident priests and friars. The Great Connell return notably records a resident priest and two friars alongside 190 Catholic families.

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Great Connell , Nurney , and SherlocJcstoiun. In the Parish of Great Connell there are 9 Protestant families, 190 Popish do, 1 Popish Priest and 2 Fryars.
In the Parish of Nurney there are 2 Protestant families, 35 Popish do, no priest or fryar resident there.

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 260

As the companion tells it

This is the 1766 religious census return for Great Connell parish. It records 9 Protestant families and 190 Catholic families, with one Catholic priest and two friars resident there. The return also covers Nurney parish, with 2 Protestant families, 35 Catholic families, and no priest or friar.

Abbot John of Monasterevan elected Bishop of Leighlin

Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 1197

In 1197, John, Abbot of the Cistercian Abbey of St. Mary of Rosglas, now Monasterevan, was elected by the Chapter as Bishop of Leighlin, with the appointment confirmed by the Archbishop of Cashel acting as Apostolic Delegate.

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“a.d. 1197. John, Abbot of the Cistercian Abbey of St. Mary of Rosglas (now Monasterevan), was elected by the Chapter, Bishop of Leighlin, and his election was confirmed by Matthew O’Heney, Archbishop of Cashel, Apostolic Delegate, in the absence of the Metropolitan John Cumin, who had gone to make complaint to the King of the sacrilegious rapacity of the English Deputy Hano de Yaloniis. This Hano opposed the appointment of Abbot John, and made of this an excuse for taking forcible possession of the temporalities of the See and

Internet Archive collectionsrelat01come, Chapter 47

As the companion tells it

Monasterevin here was once the site of the Cistercian Abbey of Saint Mary of Rosglas. In 1197 its Abbot, John, was elected by the Chapter as Bishop of Leighlin. Matthew O'Heney, Archbishop of Cashel, acting as Apostolic Delegate, confirmed the election because the Metropolitan, John Cumin, had gone to complain to the King about what the record calls the sacrilegious rapacity of the English Deputy Hano de Yaloniis. Hano opposed the appointment and used it as an excuse to take forcible possession of the temporalities of the See.

Collections relating to the dioceses of Kildare and Leighlin (vol. 1)

The stories, best first

Bishop Milo Roche buried before image of St. Laserian at Leighlin Cathedral

Father John Doyle dies at Monasterevan after American mission

Birth of James Warren Doyle at Donard/Ballinvegga

Bishop O'Keeffe sojourns and preaches across the dioceses

Dean Staunton and Bishop Keeffe found Carlow College

Doyle's Diocesan Visitation and clergy retreats

Earl of Kildare writes to Cardinal Wolsey from Maynooth

Edward Nolan born at Tullow, County Carlow

Great conflagration at Kildare in 709

John Therry's birth and formative years in Cork

Kildare Recusants Fail to Appear and Take Oath of Abjuration, 1659

Knockbeg mansion acquired for St. Mary's Preparatory School

MacGeoghegan renews Dominican convents at Athy and Mullingar

Prelates assembled at Clonmacnoise, 1649

Tullow chapel reduced to ruin, lease unobtainable

1642 Battle of Ballinvegga between Preston and Ormond

1748 Synod at Leighlin Bridge on Clandestine Marriages

Bishop Lane buried in his own Church at Kildare, effigy disputed

Bishop Nolan's death at Carlow Cathedral commemorated

Cahill's boarding-school at Seapoint, Williamstown

Clergy Summoned to Carlow Cathedral to Nominate a Coadjutor Bishop

Commission to Feagh O'Toole issued from Cavan

Consecration of Bishop James Walshe at Carlow Cathedral

Dr. Clancy consecrated Bishop in Carlow Cathedral

Dr Delany dies and is buried in the chapel he built at Tullow

Dr. Taylor's 20-year pastoral legacy at Maryborough

England's lectures at Cork Cathedral

Father Patrick Byrne dies at Park near Carlow

Financial strain at Carlow College amid rising costs

Hamilton appointed military chaplain at the Curragh Camp

Manor of Shanecourt alias Woodstock encroached upon by neighbouring landlords

Monsignor Laurence Dunne, long-serving Pastor of Castledermot

Month's Memory Office for Dr. Doyle in Carlow Cathedral

Nicholas Netterville proposed for See of Kildare

No magistrate in the entire barony of Tinnehinch

Ordination of James Doyle at Enniscorthy

Presentation Convents established across the diocese under Dr. Haly

Priest Thomas Oge O'Hinnagan frequenting the Bahen in Clonmore parish

Richard O'Reilly Appointed Parish Priest of Kilcock

Vicar-Forane of Kilcock raises clergy concerns with Doyle

Ballynure Parish Reports No Mass Said in Living Memory

Bishop Donatus rebuilds Leighlin Cathedral after destruction by fire

Bishop Harlewin buried at Dunbrody Abbey

Bishop O'Gorman dies and is buried at Killeigh

Cahill educated at Ferris's Academy, Athy

Cut-stone arch from parish church moved to Convent of Mercy, Carlow

Death and Burial of Father Hamilton at Tarbert

Death and funeral of Bishop O'Keeffe at Kildare

Dr. Denis Kane builds Convent and beautifies Church in Baltinglass

Dr. Kyran Marum's career from Carlow College to Bishop of Ossory

Father Therry's early ministry at Cork's Church of SS. Peter and Paul

Francis Haly consecrated Bishop in Carlow Cathedral

Mr. Burgh of Old Town's donation to Naas parish

Nicholas Maguire native of Tullamaguina, prebendary of Ullard

Patrick Dempsy appointed Vicar-Apostolic of Kildare

Rev. John B. Taylor dies of fever caught in Dublin cathedral duties

St Bridget honoured as special patron of Kildare town and Cathedral

Appointed President of Diocesan College of St. Mary, Cork

1766 Religious Census Returns for Kildare Parishes

Abbot John of Monasterevan elected Bishop of Leighlin